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Many people have observed this and I think it's basic fact that often it
is much easier to write a bad review for a movie than it is a good one.
In my case if a movie is awful, it is incredibly easy to write something
negative and livid because sometimes the bad movies can inspire more
creativity. When it comes to writing about a good movie, it's almost
impossible because the emotions just swell up and basically can't
translate well in to the proper words. That's what it was like writing a
review for "A Short Film about Letting Go." Director J. Erik Reese's
film is so effective, so raw, and so beautiful, it's impossible to
describe how much I enjoyed it.
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At only eleven minutes, most of
the film is basically based around performances and lush
environs that serve as an element to depict the tortured and
scattered emotions surrounding these characters. Following
various characters, Reese just steps back and films as he
allows these actors to deliver improvised performances where
they basically confront the loved one in their lives and the
results are remarkable as the impromptu dialogue is staged
in a way where it feels like a stage play acting as a
centerpiece for the skills presented here. |
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All of the performances are quite
stellar, but Mark Eric Ridley basically steals the show as the
tormented father struggling to come to terms with the relationship
with his distant son.
The confrontation that ensues is quite remarkable and
makes the film worth watching completely. Which is not to say
everything else isn't of considerable value as Reese's direction
matched with Joshua Nitschke's cinematography makes this an
absolutely stunning production with some incredible photography
while Reese injects life in to what could have been a self indulgent
project. Reese definitely takes a risk allowing his cast to branch
off from the script, but it's worth it because the results of their
talent are as clear as day on screen. It's quite a sight to behold
at times.
With a great cast and top notch direction "A Short Film About Letting
Go" is a great experimental short film that centers on and perfectly
captures the inner workings of human relationships and raw emotions.
Definitely look out for it once it hits festivals.

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