Jellyfish and Lobster

A simple story about a venerable lady, affected by cancer and a venerable man , far to solid health , both living in a hospice. Their relation becomes in unconventional place and manner but a sort of complicity, mutual support and real compasion , like a pool who works, for a time, as youth fontain are enough for a strong comradery .

And together they are to death, in simple , charming, childish wise way.

For acting, for construction of story, for different image of mature romance, a must see . Not exactly for the story itself but for emotions, well crafted, for inspired smiles and for not so comfortable portrait of oldness and ill.

This is a funny and truly touching short drama about an elderly pair who befriend each other at a care home. It's clear that neither have their medical problems to seek, but that - equally - neither are quite ready to give up the ghost. It also seems that their residence has a swimming pool with a difference. A sort of fountain of youth! Real or metaphorical - well that doesn't really matter as it has quite a profound effect on the mindset of this increasingly mischievous and lively couple. Flo Wilson is super as the increasingly outspoken "Grace" whom, as a mother, sends her son a photograph any child would dread! Sayed Badreya is also on great form as her pal "Mido" as they share their lives, and aspirations for what's left of them, together in an hugely charismatic fashion. The scenes at the tail end of this must raise a smile and it really is worth twenty minutes of your time.

Out of all the short films I watched at this year's festival, this is the best one I have seen.

This short film takes place in an elderly care home, where two residents form a mischievous but beautiful bond while battling their illnesses and decaying old age. However, they both discover a swimming pool at the care home that has the magical ability to restore their youth whenever they go under the water. Is the magic real or just in their imaginations? Well, it doesn't answer that question, but it is up to you to decide.

It's a funny and heartbreaking short film that reminds you of your mortality. In the meantime, it shows us a little glimpse of the humiliating and crappy living conditions at the care home and why the characters want to revolt against it cheekily.

Director/writer Yasmin Afifi made a stunning film that blends comedy and drama so well. It is incredibly acted, shot, and edited.

No matter the age you are, you are still young at heart. The 'fountain of youth' swimming pool could metaphorically be another form of escapism, an escape from the downside of things and having a moment to feel good again. But just like some things, you can only stay under for so long before you come out to face reality again.

So yeah, I liked this one.

Funny, poignant, heart achingly beautiful. You will laugh, you will cry, you will find it impossible to not be moved by the tenderness and fragility played out on screen. You will be struck by not only the bravery of the characters, but by the director and writer herself who has created something utterly incredible for us to not only watch, but feel.

The cinematography and accompanying music underscores each emotion perfectly. The juxtaposition of the fragility of the characters current position, versus the Joie de Vivre once they hit the water is disconcerting and reminds us that youth is fleeting and sadly cannot be returned to us once it has gone.

A stunning film.

Deserves a standing ovation. Jellyfish and Lobster is an absolutely incredible short film that everyone should watch once. Watchinng this formed so many emotions out of me that aI wasn't sure what to feel. I found the film to be a perfect blend of comedy and tragedy while being really beautiful. The film is edited perfectly and 20 minutes is the perfect length.

The cinematography, editing and sound really sells the film for me, along with the wonderful performances of the two leads, young and old. Well done Yasmin, proud of you.

//////// Viewed as part of the In-house NFTS Graduation Film Showcase on Saturday 4th March 2023.