Dad Pals

It is interesting to watch different ways in which humor can be employed to talk about a topic that is far from laughter and cheer in its gravity. The short film, concise and to the point, is an endeavor in the same vein. Three friends sit together playing a video game, an object that remains an influence in the treatment of the story itself, invoking a visual and audio atmosphere marked by its graphic novel-esque feel, about to develop into a full-fledged realm of a video game.

When one of them mentions calling his father, a narrative begins to unfold which is deliberately ridiculous, absurd, and thereby, all the more significant in the communication of its message. The reality of having a loving parent is unachievable to the point of being only a matter of mocking exchanges between the remaining two characters.

The only character in this situation who has experienced responsible parenting and stability in his domestic space, primarily from his father, has now attained the status of a unicorn, mythical and far from any possibility of existence. At the same time, his other friends have devolved into a state of near-delirium, unable to reconcile their shock, laughter and the deep-seated sadness. The film is a dedicated attempt to portray it all, along with ensuring it does not become didactic or overbearing. The lighthearted tone is maintained throughout, allowing itself to share its story in a cheery, entertaining manner.