As a film fan, it is always a great delight to discover a new talent early in his career. The Collector, directed by Alex Melli, is just such an experience. The acting is top-notch; the story is crisp, propulsive and suspenseful; and there is enough special scenes and effects to make you forget this is a short. It is more like a great movie boiled down to its fundamentals, at 11 minutes. The last turn of events in the film is shocking fun, and entirely credible--something so rare in films in general these days. If Melli ever makes a full production, count me in for tickets on opening weekend. Forget the big, blustery, billious summer fare, and take a look at some real film talent on display: The Collector, directed by Alex Melli. You will be glad you did.
