Independent films are often short films under 20 minutes. Filmmakers use shorts to get themselves noticed, to open doors, show they have talent. Many short films have the feeling of 'unfinished' work and often this is actually the case. It's a rare film that is short and makes you feel as you've seen a complete story.
I submit to you a short that was passed to me at the 'Anaheim International Film Festival'. It's entitled 'Liv' and it runs a very scant 7 minutes. It stars Jared Day (Butterfly Circus) and Taylar Hender who is now shooting the new film 'Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer'.
In the 7 minutes that 'Liv' runs we met Thomas and understand that he is very depressed. He lives next door to a little girl named Liv ,(who looks like an angel), and her grandfather. Liv visits Thomas; they make small talk, play picnic and she draws him 'happy' pictures. However, Thomas is not happy. Thomas is so unhappy that he dreams of ending his life.
Decision made, wrists slit, Liv shows up and goes to get help. Her grandfather calls the paramedics and Thomas is being taken to the ambulance. On the way out Thomas tells the old man to thank Liv for him. However, the old man has no grandchild that lives with him. In a split second, Thomas has an epiphany. That's the end of the film...done.
I'd rather watch this film over and over instead of watching one full length film out of most at theaters right now.
Jared Day as Thomas is amazing. His performance is painful to watch, it's like looking into a damaged soul. The source of his depression isn't revealed, however with the way he is dressed and the state of the war, one is lead to think ex-military.
According to Jared;
"Liv" won a large monetary prize in TheDoorPost.com film competition last year and won the producers the spot in the final round to make a 20 minute film. That film became "Butterfly Circus". As I'm sure you know, "Butterfly Circus" won the final round of TheDoorPost.com competition (and a larger monetary prize) and that launched it's winning streak and "BC" has rapidly gained lots of national attention since then.'
Jared received a nomination for best actor.
Lots of focus has been pointed toward 'Butterfly Circus' (review to follow). 'Liv' is a film that deserves to be shown and movie lovers deserve to see 'Liv'.
Check 'Liv' out to the left, enjoy...it's a great film. If the video doesn't play please click here to view.
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