Straight A

In the age where pretty much anyone can pick up some recording device and put together a short for less than nothing...well...too many people actually do. And out of those who do, too many shouldn't. While it is in many ways easier and less expensive to put together a short, it is actually much more difficult to convey a compelling statement while creating 3-dimensional, understandable characters. "Straight A" has a good baseline in that we believe we can sense the characters' motivations...but the "driver" or "challenge" here is extremely shallow (been there, done that). As a rewrite, the writer/director/lead should think of a way that would make this story unique...or at least TELLING it in a unique way (and no, this is essentially a variation on "The Wedding Banquet"). I would highly encourage this team to try again...and wish them the best of luck.

...first, for the lovely performance of Nathan Chen. Second, for the great plot. And not the last, for admirable manner to propose a wise story more than a happy one. A film about love and pressure. And about the right answer , the wise one in a delicate and so significant relation. A beautiful film. Not only for cinematography, performances or inspired exploration of a big step but for the spring air of hope.