AFI SHORTS Part 5

Reviews By: Kim Jindra

JOLANDA 23 

Directed By: Pim Zwier

This film makes being a children's portrait photographer look easy. This little gem from the Netherlands is beautifully shot with rich textures.  You won't believe the preparation involved in readying a cow for a publicity shot.  It requires lots of patience and a sense of humor.

MR. MUSTACHE

 Directed By: Ørjan Jensen

MR. MUSTACHE is part retrospective and part Mustaches for Dummies.  We learn how to curl and twirl, the myths of eating with a mustache, and how self esteem can be enhanced with simple facial hair. It is delightful.

DOWNTOWN LA

Directed By: Nick Higgins

This short starts with a beautiful sunrise over the city.  We watch everyone from the homeless to the street cleaners greet the new day before it is taken over the bustle of the metro riders and business owners. There is one spectacular shot of palm trees.  Overall, it is a nice video postcard that I would be happy to send to friends and family.

THE APOLOGY LINE

Directed By: James Lees

The Apology Line is like going to confession without leaving the comfort of your own home.  Some of the confessions were so personal it is hard to believe they were not scripted.  I am surprised people would choose to confess anonymously to something over a phone line when calls can be traced and monitored.   The film is effective and a lot about people on an extremely low budget.

IN THE THEME 

Directed By: Olga Popova

This short film examines the relationship of one lesbian couple on their first anniversary.  The two young Russians talk freely about their struggles with family, society and culture.  It is brutally honest and sometimes, a bit painful to watch.   The film is informative and amusing and a real window into the challenges these women face on a daily basis.

LOST GIRL

Directed By: Ali Taleb

The Lost Girl begs her audience to understand that she is not a bad girl.  She is an Iraqi refugee in a country without friends or family to depend on.  She wants to live like everyone else but is forced to be a prostitute.  She is clearly a survivor.    One interesting moment in the film was her shopping trip for clothes.  She could have been anywhere that sells exotic dance wear but she was in Jordan.  It was strange to see so many recognizable product names in a Jordanian street bazaar.