Libby and Erin are new parents to a little boy who has arrived with a few hiccups in tow, circumstances they are not entirely prepared for. There appears to be a disconnect between them in the resolution of these, one which becomes the driving force and the primary thematic concern of the narrative. As their doubts and uncertainties are exposed for a conversation, it is a plate of placenta around which the drama unfolds. 
The afterbirth becomes a nexus of anxieties, discomfort, and uncomfortable conversations. The screenplay, chemistry, and most crucially, prop support (!), each outdoes the other in bringing this reality to life, presenting a film that is not only sincere and heartfelt in an effortless manner but also manages to express all its gravitas with humor and drama tied together. 
While our new parents might have a thing or two to figure out about this massive change in their lives, the film and its execution remain clear and steadfast in the expression of its intentions all along.

Placenta Pâté  | Short Film of the Month

The film is notably impactful in its brevity. The story is a powerful account of the overwhelming experience of a miscarriage that its protagonist, Margot has recently undergone. The subsequent narrative is not weighed down by verbal profusions of any kind. 

Instead, the palpability of emotions weaving the narrative together becomes the most overarching force, reducing everything else to the background. The writing, screenwriting, and performances all support this endeavor all the way, ensuring that the end result of the film is deeply moving and poignant. 

The realm of ‘Fly-Tipping’ is constructed with the utmost care, ensuring that it succeeds in communicating all of this and some more - what could have been had the pregnancy run its full course? What might have caused its abrupt termination? Would they have been good parents? As the two characters lie on the abandoned, bloodstained mattress in the middle of a field, the clouds continue to carry these questions and thoughts away into nothingness.

Fly-Tipping | Short Film of the Day

The entirety of the narrative develops and concludes within the duration of an evening. The progression of events is kept abreast with the pace of the single-shot-film which introduces you to a couple about to head out for a celebratory dinner. However, what could have otherwise been a moment marked by joy and pleasure, is somehow overpowered by an undercurrent of tension, of something simmering right below the surface. All the information is revealed to the viewer in a controlled, but organic manner, allowing the story to flow smoothly and come into its own with control. The performances enhance it further, asserting in no equivocal terms that honesty, vulnerability and rawness of emotions is sometimes all that is needed to make a story work. Though the film could have gained from a better control on lighting, one is willing to accommodate it for the storytelling it offers, and the smooth visual flow of the developments. Additionally, there is a sense of intimacy and affection that is brought to life using the argument of its only two characters, who may disagree in the moment, but still have a common thread of a shared life tying and holding them together.

Argumento | Short Film of the Day

The story is about an academic who finds himself stuck in an elevator with a pregnant woman and a man in a wheelchair. If things were not already difficult, the woman's water breaks while they still wait for help to arrive. The only person among them, who is physically capable of helping her, finds himself unable to do so due to anxiety linked with his Asperger's. The short film is a brave attempt and manages to generate laughs at the expense of its characters misery. It also offers notable performances by Maia Nikiphoroff and Francis Cronin.

Most Viewed

Genres

Awards

Follow Us

Quick Links