The film works wonderfully in its brevity, as well as the intimacy it portrays on screen. It closely controls its resources of the physical space, bringing us tight, intimate shots of the sole two characters, in a manner that remains effortless and seamless throughout. At the heart of the narrative is an integral question, one that perhaps came a little too early in the relationship. Now the answer hangs in the balance in a way that would determine the fate of the two lovers before us. It is loaded with expectation, hope, and uncertainty. When the answer arrives, it is not ideal, and yet, the nature of the relationship still remains defined by intimacy and affection. This allows the storytelling to be straightforward and simple, and yet, be meaningful and heartfelt. The performances play a very crucial role in bolstering this endeavor, eventually sharing a vulnerable, earnest story of two people who may have their differences, but are also ready to tackle them as one.

Over Early | Short Film of the Day

The film is an intimate reflection of a very personal thought and approach to life that attains an unmissable universality in its portrayal. The narrative introduces us to Mirko, an artisan who has turned what was once a workshop for tools into a sanctuary of creativity. 

Moody shots take us into a world where the protagonist works with immense care and dedication to keep an art form alive. In his own words, he maps a movement “from artist to artisan”, by taking the viewer deeper into the innards of his workshop. This is further coupled with visuals of the outdoors, the fields, and forests that serve as his companions. 
The film's thoughtful screenplay, its controlled pacing, and the quietness of it all portray for the viewer a space of handicrafts, a realm that is deliberately slowed down in an age where everything - from fashion to food to the content we consume - is fast and instant. 

The subsequent narrative thus becomes a heartfelt reflection of a process that entails going back to the past to create something for the future, something that would last and endure the test of time, in the process, also pronouncing its title.

Going Back to Move Forward | Short Film of the Day

Eli has found himself in a difficult spot with his father and their pastor. An encounter gone wrong in a closely-knit religious community leads to the realization of the title of the film, the destructive consequences of playing too closely with fire, of flying too close to the sun, in the most heartbreaking way for our protagonist. He is located between a rock and a hard place, between desires he cannot deny, desires which take flight from the heteronormative conformity of the world he inhabits, and the oppressive traditionality that is expected of him. 

The film brings to life a heartfelt vulnerability that is both impactful in communicating its intentions, as well as lucid in the despair it portrays. 
Within the framework of its brevity, the end result manages to convey all of this and some more, supported by intelligent choices within the screenplay. The juxtaposition of a fire that empowers, the fire of desire and want for affection and touch, and the fire that consumes and burns, becomes a powerful contrast nestled within the narrative. 
The writing and performances further aid this attempt, ensuring that all of these ideas get realized with ease for the audience to engage with.

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