American Fishtrap

If like me you don't often watch short films let alone Westerns, you should find yourself charmed by this debut from Chasen Parker. It packs a lot in it's running time moved along by gorgeous settings, scenery and a well judged score. The story starts simple enough with 2 brothers returning home after the civil war but before they even have time to rest they discover Marcus's wife Rose is missing and being held to ransom. Already woven into the theme is how they treat people of colour - and it's not a pretty sight. It made me feel quite uncomfortable and quickly led to me sympathasise with some characters more than others - especially their slave Leon. Their journey to rescue Rose moves along fairly quickly but is not uneventful with twists and turns on the way. This story has a lot of heart, great performances - including the director himself - playing a character assuredly much older than his true years - leading to a satisfying twist at the end. I wanted something different and interesting to watch and this hit the mark for me.

Chasen Parker, has wowed having been the writer and director of this short film shown at the Cannes Film Festival. The cinematography is flawless, the music fits the feel of the movie so well, and the characters are epic. The story flowed well in it's 30 minute slot. We get all the details we need and though it jumps from scene to scene, the transition works in this case. Lance A. Williams who plays the slave, Leon, is certainly an actor to be recognized and that last scene was quite the twist! No spoilers here! You wanna know? Go watch it. I gave a 9/10 because some sound effects were a bit distracting in one scene. That being the only flaw says a lot and I highly recommend this short film.

This film is is not your average Western. Throughout the whole film you are kept engaged, wondering whats going to happen next and then hit with a twist. Loved it

The cinematography was spectacular and worthy of note for this slow burning race across the Texas West. From scene to scene you are able to taste what the Director is feeling with his scenes and the execution is superb! Definitely worth a watch!

Beautiful cinematography, well acted, and engaging story. It's 30 minute run time flies by, definitely give this one a watch.