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kaitlinmccoo
Reviews
Hawk (2011)
A stunning mystical production
Hawk is a dramatic short fantasy film written by Alex McArdell and M J McMahon that delves into the classic storyline of an internal struggle with good and evil. The battle is showcased using the main character Rowan who is brilliantly played by both Robert Gwyn Davin and Steffan Thomas at different stages of the characters life.
The story is set in stunning mystical Welsh landscapes, creating an extremely dramatic backdrop for this suspenseful short fantasy film. The dramatic wide shots of the eery hills with perfectly pairing sinister music creates an intense viewing for the audience.
The film explores traditional folklore with Rowan and his father Gawain at the forefront. It is obvious to the viewer that Gawain cares deeply for his son and wants to give him the best possible chance of survival in the wilderness. This naturally makes the viewer emotionally connected to the characters and creates an interest in the story that is about to unfold.
The pace of the film was rather slow, focusing more on dramatic drawn out shots rather than plot or character explanation. Although this is typical of the fantasy form, it definitely was not an easy storyline to follow considering that it was such a short production. However, I believe this also played in to the films overall mystical feel.
Killing Thyme (2015)
a gorgeous production with a heartwarming yet tragic story
This short film directed by M. J. McMahon is a heartwarming drama that cleverly depicts the effects that life will eventually take on you. It is done by comparing the optimistic life of young character Sam (Joe Reynolds) with that of the old miserable life of Norman (Brian Cox).
The story is centred around Sam's grumpy neighbours allotment ,which is completely overgrown and untended to. This symbolises Normans current state and the stage that he is at in his life. Sam is an excitable child who just wants to help old-man Norman out in anyway that he can. Sam attempts to help out Norman in the most jaw-dropping way when the story takes a surprisingly tragic turn.
This piece cleverly highlights the innocence of a child and just how vulnerable their small minds are. It makes us realise that the words we say truly can impact the decisions that children make.
Killing Thyme is effortlessly tied up with a glorious harmonising colour pallet from setting and costume choices throughout. It is a thought provoking piece that showcases a very polished production with amazing acting from leading roles.
The Girl in the Dress (2015)
Another woman In desperate need of a man
The girl in the dress is a short comedy film written and directed by Natalie Malla that showcases a troubled love story. At the beginning of the film we are introduced to two strangers that have met in a sunny park under unusual circumstances.
The viewer is subjected to an emotional fiery breakdown from wedding-dress-wearing Emily (Olivia Poulet) as she divulges her love for a man to street performer Rob (Rick Helm). We soon realise that Emily has not fled her own wedding but in fact, is planning to gatecrash her ex lovers.
The production appears to be mostly slapstick comedy with Emily boldly presenting most major negative female tropes. Emily, unfortunately is my least favourite type of leading character. She appears pathetic and desperate for a man. Her character is portrayed as totally unhinged. It makes poor Emily hard to connect with and extremely unlikeable.
The production did however, manage to make way for some laughs and the overall tone of the piece was upbeat and silly.
The Man from Mo'Wax (2016)
Exciting, informative and extremely nostalgic
The man with Mo wax gives viewers an extremely informative and exciting view into 1990's musician James Lavelle's journey within the music industry. Director Mathew Jones gives a wonderful insight into the workings of Britains underground music scenes with this brilliant, fast paced documentary.
This production truly stands out from other music documentaries with its incredibly insightful style. Not only do we get a full view into the rise and fall of the musicians career, we are also introduced to other music icons who influenced his journey greatly. The viewer also has the opportunity to learn a lot about the workings of the music industry in 1990 Britain from this production.
'The Man from Mo'Wax' showcases original clips captured by Lavelle and his teams, from the beginning of their exciting journey, through to the hardships that they faced along the way. The use of constant self tape cut aways creates an extremely authentic and honest representation of how hard Lavelle worked to create a name for himself within the industry.
I truly loved every part of this documentary. From observing the hard work that went into the creation of a "boutique label", through to gaining an understanding of just how much Lavelle kept believing in himself in order to gain positive recognition. The appearance of iconic musicians, cult fashion brands and art throughout the entire production made for extremely nostalgic viewing.