Now this is a short film that I got the chance to see thanks to co-writer and co-star Timothy J. Cox. He's an actor local to where I live and I've seen a handful of his works. I have enjoyed everything I've seen him so far, so I wanted to check this out and give a review to help spread the word about this short where I can.
Synopsis: Take a look into the marriage of an average middle class couple, who have been married for 20 years. Marriage has definitely changed them. For better or for worse?
The synopsis does well in setting the stage here so let me dive right into my thoughts. The opening scene is interesting. We're seeing our couple, only referred to as Him (Cox) and Her (Heather Bayles). They're sitting at a table in a coffee shop, not talking. I love that this opening shot is done from a table over where another couple is sitting. This puts our couple in the background. Seeing how lively this place is and how just subdued they are sets the tone.
From here, we then see them have a meal together before they finally get a drink. They are cordial and this started to make me think different things. You can tell there is chemistry there, but the vibes are off. I'll be honest, I came into this one without reading a synopsis or anything. I did guess what the reveal was before it came. I'm not going to spoil it, but what I'll say is that it makes so much sense. I wanted to credit the acting performances from both Bayles and Cox, because they're able to convey so much with body language and limited dialogue.
That's not to say that they don't say things. How they both deliver their lines is interesting. It shows two different ways people will react to things. There is something that she says that clearly cuts deep with him. With this minimal approach, I like how a viewer can take what we want from it. It made me start thinking, what happened to get them here? Is there someone to blame? Was there a catalyst event that influenced things or are we seeing what just time has done? It makes me reflect inwardly on my own life, which I'll also credit with such limited time.
Something I should also credit is that Bayles and Cox were the co-writers. What I love is that I feel there is more about the characters than what we're given. Being that they formulated the characters, it feels like they know the roles inside and out. Even if they don't, it feels like they do, which works for me. I think that helps make them feel even more real.
I'll then shift over to discuss the filmmaking. I've already brought up that I love how the opening shot is framed. They then go to a fancy restaurant for dinner. I'll also say that the sound design is good showing that around this couple, life is going on like normal. Whatever is affecting them is isolated. It makes me think about how we don't know what others are dealing with. The cinematography is able to capture how nice the restaurant and the bar were. This also has a perfect runtime of ten minutes. Like I was saying, it was impressive to tell a complete story, by giving so little in a short time. That is an impressive feat with the visuals.
In conclusion, this is a short film that skillfully portrays the complexities of a long-term marriage with minimal dialogue and powerful performances. Ahmed's direction, coupled with the nuanced writing of Bayles and Cox, creates a compelling narrative that invites viewers to ponder the unspoken truths within relationships. The thoughtful cinematography and sound design further enhance the isolated yet relatable struggle of the central couple, making the ten-minute runtime feel surprisingly complete and impactful. It's a testament to the power of subtle storytelling, leaving a lasting impression.
My Rating: 8 out of 10.
