This Modern Man Is Beat

This Modern Man is Beat is in many respects a fantastic short film. Though many of the characters are understandably somewhat one-note given its short length, both its central protagonist Habib and his wife receive a significant amount of development, and the dismal and desperate mental state of the former throughout comes across very well in the writing and acting.

The sets are also of sterling quality, with strong contrasts of light and dark dividing the past and the present. The film's foreshadowing is top-notch, as small, intermittently introduced details combine to form a grander picture, subtle enough to clue one in without giving away its true premise until the end.

That said, for all its high points the film does have its share of foibles, as the cold open in the pawn shop leaves little time to establish the gravity of Habib selling his guitar, and Habib himself is a little too eager to spill his whole life's story at the drop of a hat. The film is also prone to shots that occasionally come off as awkward and even slightly comical, which can undercuts the tension somewhat.

The film's cold open combined with its short length are generally what hurt the film the most though, as the extremely dramatic, dolorous music, the slow pace of dialogue and perhaps overly impassioned delivery of the main actor can appear almost to be self-parody at moments given the emotional attachment they expect the viewer to have for a character they've known only fifteen or so minutes.

Overall, the film is very competent and moving but occasionally considers itself more emotional than it is, and undermines itself in the process.

Through a fragmented narrative and striking cinematography, the film plunges viewers into the turbulent psyche of its protagonist as he navigates the complexities of modern life. The performances, particularly by the lead actor, are raw and emotionally resonant, pulling audiences into the heart of his existential struggle.

However, the film's nonlinear structure and abstract storytelling may be off-putting for some viewers, requiring patience and open-mindedness to fully appreciate its depth. While the ambiguity of certain scenes adds to the film's enigmatic charm, it also risks leaving audiences feeling disconnected or bewildered.

Despite its challenges, "This Modern Man Is Beat" rewards those willing to immerse themselves in its introspective journey with thought-provoking insights into the human condition and the search for meaning in a world fraught with uncertainty.

"Exploring contemporary manhood and profound existential doubts, 'This Modern Man Is Beat' offers a gripping story. Its starkly minimalist style coupled with evocative filmmaking fashion an eerie environment for the main character's reflective quest. Characters navigate their identities, feelings of isolation, and outside pressures in a highly realistic manner. Guided by Director Alex Merkin's command, it weaves together insightful narratives that linger long after viewing end credits roll up on screen.

In its short duration run-time spans out enough to allow viewers space to delve into themes around our existence and self-awareness journey."

This Modern Man is Beat is a very interesting film that uses ambiguity to keep the viewer guessing and involved. The splicing of moments from the past and present tell the story of Habib and his relationship with his girlfriend, going from very loving moments to more violent ones. This storytelling strategy works to intrigue the viewer and make them wonder what will happen next. As the story begins somewhat in the center of the events, there is no way of understanding the full picture until it has played out in its entirety, and when it does, the payoff is immense. The cinematography during the flashbacks of Habib and his girlfriend are beautifully shot and reflect the love the have for each other. Overall, this is a very well made film that lingers in your mind after viewing.

"This Modern Man is Beat" is a masterful short film that brilliantly encapsulates the complexity of identity, culture, and personal struggle in a mere 17 minutes. The film, directed by Alex Merkin, is an evocative piece of storytelling that resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impression on its viewers.

From the outset, the film immerses you in a gritty, atmospheric world that feels both familiar and intriguingly foreign. The cinematography is exceptional, capturing the raw emotion and tension of the protagonist's journey with a keen eye for detail. Each frame is meticulously crafted, creating a visual narrative that is as compelling as the story itself.