Shouting at the Sea

A beautifully written short film, convincingly acted by Harry Michell and Maddie Rice with stylish direction from Benjamin Verrall and atmospheric music and cinematography. On one level this short film feels quite gentle and subtle, but on another, I found it much deeper and thoughtful.

Set in the seaside town of Hastings out of season, two old school friends reconnect years later and gradually try and understand the past while getting to know each other in the present. The sea (voiced by Daisy Haggard) narrates as its waves endlessly break onto the shore.

I was totally convinced by the outstanding performances and left wondering not only about them but about my own life...but surely everyone sometimes wonders about the paths they've taken and the people they left behind on the way, don't they?

I really enjoyed it. It left me wanting more. It was heartfelt, and you could feel the connection between the characters, they felt real and were so likeable. Their emotions really came through, and it was impossible not to feel what they were feeling-the joy, the tension, and even the unspoken moments. It's the kind of film that tugs at you without being over the top. Almost shed a tear!

Hastings felt like its own character, making me want to visit again. The way the town and the sea were brought to life was stunning, and the sound was amazing, especially with all the cuts to the sea. It added so much emotion and atmosphere, making every moment feel even more alive.

Would definitely recommend.

It's no easy task to get an audience to connect with, and care about, a film's characters in just 20 minutes, but Ben Verrall and his team of co-writers achieve this brilliantly with Shouting at the Sea. It manages to do what all great character-driven films do: Make poignant heartache somehow feel redemptive and uplifting.

The performances of the two protagonists are wonderful, played subtly and seemingly effortlessly, allowing the watcher to feel as if they're glimpsing a moment of reality - one that is shot beautifully, managing to capture the essence of a once-great seaside town in need of the love and attention so clearly craved by one of its inhabitants. The addition of the ever-brilliant Daisy Haggard as the voice of the sea is a great touch, bringing a poeticism very much in keeping with the piece.

I'll very much look forward to what this up-and-coming British director produces next.

This is a film for anyone who believes in soulmates-those rare connections that shape who we are. It's for anyone who has ever wanted to shout at the sea, overwhelmed by life's complexities (or has). If you've ever missed someone who once defined your world, or longed to reconnect with a piece of your past, watch Shouting at the Sea.

And whether you grew up in a seaside town or not, this film will transport you to the emotional landscapes of your teenage years. It's a love letter to friendships that endure and to the strength it takes to revisit-and ultimately make peace with-where you came from.

Beautifully written and directed. Intense and sensitively performed. The music and cinematography take it to another level. Congratulations to toffee hammer and everyone involved.

A beautifully crafted short film that poignantly explores the essence of human connections, capturing the fragility, warmth, and profound impact of the bonds we share.

The two leads share a refreshingly authentic chemistry-raw, vulnerable, and genuine. Set against the charming backdrop of an out-of-season seaside town, Hastings provides the perfect setting for the characters to reconnect and reflect on their shared history.

Exceptional performances, stunning cinematography and a captivating spoken word soundtrack enhance the film's magic.

Highly recommended for fans of intelligent, emotionally charged cinema.