I was actually impressed enough to create an IMDb account for the chance to encourage the director. This is my first review here. So I get to elaborate just to explain my ten rating..
Here's what I liked. She took a lot of risks. For a young director that's important. It shows courage. She then took more risks in acting the main role. Good. I like courage and think that new writers, directors and actors have to get a lot of praise for it if we want new and interesting films.
I like her willingness to push the viewer to be uncomfortable. The main character isn't in touch with being in an uncomfortable place in her own life so the viewers get to do the psychological work for her. Well done.
I like how she told us in many places that everything was completely from the perspective of her lead character, letting us realize that's really the issue. The other woman? Over the top repulsive. The boys? Seen through the lens of her needs and wishes. A real person looking through the room window probably wouldn't see rose petals on the bed or the obsessive videogame playing. It's all a reflection of what's felt and thus projected onto the people around her by the lead character. Good job in showing not telling. We understand that this woman lives in her fantasies and that's how she's wound up in these relationships. I like writers and directors who can play with character psychology while leaving the viewer to connect the lines.
Short films from new directors shouldn't have to be Citizen Kane or The Third Man to get ten stars or two thumbs up or 100 points. Just do what this one did. Show courage, write characters who demonstrate some real human psychology, let the acting push the ideas, and do it in a way that says your later films will be worth watching. Good job Ms Kirsh. Keep making films. Push harder, keep taking risks. I'm looking forward to your next film.
