The Canadian Film Fest (CFF) began its 2019 edition this week. This weekend, CFF will present two incredible Homegrown Shorts programmes for the first time. Here, I share with you my thoughts on five of these shorts.
Homegrown Shorts Programme #1
The Desolation Prize
Written & Dir. by Shane Day
Synopsis: A throwback to the 60s style Hammer horrors, but with a modern edge. The story centers on a young girl, Bobbi, who after spending the night with a reclusive man returns to work in a vintage clothing store with more than she expected.
My Thoughts: Well-paced short with a story that could use a bit more explaining. I actually wanted to learn more about this mysterious man and how he and Bobbi event knew each other. However, it still delivers in creepy factor and suspense. I liked its cinematography, locations, and closing song.
3 Hye-Fives out of 5
This is not a Drill
Written & Dir. by Ravi Steve
Synopsis: The film follows two brothers as they search for the best way to assist their ailing mother. Dealing with issues of end of life care, and sibling rivalry, this genre-defying short mixes comedy, drama, and absurdism into a single package.
My thoughts: Although the topic may seem morbid, Sergio Di Zio and Colin Glazer as the two brothers are quite good at delivering dramatic and comedic performances. I quite like how the film starts, in a car, without us really knowing what the two men are talking about. I had some laugh-out-loud moments here. Although short, it hits a chord. Well produced, and of course, good casting.
4 Hye-Fives out of 5
Spatss!
Written & Dir. by Régis Loisel
Synopsis: Unlucky Jacky’s fortune, so he thinks, changes one day to the next, when he finds a pair of magical shoes. Suddenly he is overcome with pride, courage, and ego. But the worst is yet to come as the shoes push Jacky into a series of unlikely mishap.
My thoughts: I like slapstick humour, I really do. I was hoping to find this film a bit funnier. Filmed in black and white, it does remind me of the classics by Chaplin, Lloyd, Keaton. I am not too sure I get the punch line, to be honest. Wished there was more of substance to say about this film…
2 Hye-Fives out of 5
Homegrown Shorts Programme #2
A Snake Marked
Written by Adam Lolacher & Juan Riedinger
Directed by Juan Riedinger
Synopsis: A convict (Adam Lolacher) who spends his days sketching charcoal art in his prison cell receives a surprise visit from his estranged father. A surprise visit by his father (Howard Siegel) forces him to remember his difficult past, his memories cause him to lose grasp, blurring the lines of his present reality.
My thoughts: The film deals with heavy topics like domestic abuse and incarceration. Nonetheless, Lolacher and Siegel are so good in their roles that I could not help but to feel compassion for each of them in some way. Good direction by Riedinger, and an excellent choice of closing song by Erin Buhr. Another well produced, well acted film.
4 Hye-Fives out of 5
Duck Duck Goose
Written & Dir. by Shelley Thompson
Synopsis: What starts as an ordinary day in an elementary school takes a sinister turn. When hiding for your life becomes a frightening game, an elementary school teacher and children cope with the fear and guilt created by lockdown.
My thoughts: Uff! This film made me feel so tense, mad, and sad all at the same time. Kudos to Francine Deschepper as the teacher in this film, and the various children who are part of it. I’m certain it was not an easy one to film, but they have done an excellent job. A real, poignant story that reflects our current times, and how violent acts affect our most vulnerable.
4 Hye-Fives out of 5
Catch these short films at Can Film Fest on Saturday, March 23, 2019. For full festival line up and screening times, please visit canfilmfest.ca. All film screenings take place at Cineplex Scotiabank Theatre.
