Within – A Short Film Review
Within is a very emotional drama that really connects with the audinece thanks to an exceptional performance from Michael Hobbs.
What’s It All About?
With a tragic ordeal he would rather forget, Michael revisits the day that changed his life forever.
My Opinion
Write and director Christopher Key has provided us with a very simple yet powerful and moving short. This is very focused with no wasted dialogue or screentime. We are presented with an interview set up with Michael where he talks about a tragedy. This is carefully woven with clips of Michael sitting on a bench waiting to meet someone. Some slick editing weaves between the two scenes coming together at the finale to join them together and complete the story-arc. This is carefully done not to reveal the purpose of the park meeting right until the final moments leaving with a sad but heart-warming feeling.
Key has concentrated on telling the story, keeping everything else very simple and allowing the audience to focus on what is being told to them. There is one clear message in the short and it is told to us very well.
The story is character driven, with the audience following Michael on his journey of closure, which is thw driving force of the story. Neil Hobbs puts in an excellent performance, ensuring this story is told in the most sincere way. His words hit you with such a powerful impact that you are hanging on every word he says.
Notable Performances
Neil Hobbs was simply outstanding in this short film. I have never seen such a moving and powerful performance in a long time. He had a way of moving the audience without even muttering a word. I felt as though he connected with the audience effortlessly. A quick look on IMDB and I was so surprised to see so few credits to his name appearing in a handful of shorts, the first of which was in 2016. He clearly has a natural acting ability.
The Verdict
Within is a simple story told perfectly with an outstanding performance from Neil Hobbs. Christopher Key has ensured such a sensitive subject is told in the most thoughtful and delicate manner making this short film an emotionally moving one.
