Mute Swan

This film did some things very well. The acting was good--I could read Benny's thoughts on his face as he came to his epiphany. While some people might find abrasive his reactions to "minor" disappointments, many adolescent boys do overreact in that fashion, and haven't yet learned to control their frustration. I love the interaction between Benny's mother and her boyfriend. I like what the director tried to do with the audio, and that he tried different camera angles; however, there is room for development in the execution--a little more subtlety with the effects will make them resound better with the audience, in my opinion...don't force them down our throat; instead, use them to complement the film and let us admire them. All in all, though, good work. I assume the filmmakers are at the beginning of their careers, and will only get better. By the way, my ratings are not based on quality, but entertainment value to me; this is a good short film for what it is, but just not subject matter I'm too interested in.