Short Film Review: The Answers
★★★★★
(PG-13, 8 mins)
Written and Directed by: Michael Goode
Daniel Lissing as Nathan, the man with the questions. Image source.
We have all heard the stories of how people with near-death experiences see their life flash before their eyes but for the rest of us, who were lucky enough to not have shared in such events, are left to wonder what it might be like. Through this award-winning short film co-authors Michael Goode and Daniel Lissing gave us a glimpse into their version of a "life review". After a sudden accident a man, portrayed by Australian actor Daniel Lissing (Hallmark Channel's When Calls the Heart and MTV's Eye Candy), is thrown into an in-between dimension where he "gets to know everything about [his] life". As his questions move from fun-filled curiosity to heartbreakingly personal we were left to ponder what is the meaning of it all?
In under eight minutes, Lissing and Goode were able to convey their messages perfectly; a feat considering many still cannot achieve it with a feature-length film. The cinematography and editing were beautifully executed and gave the story the necessary pace to progress. Despite the seriousness of the matter the film retained its balanced tone throughout; giving it a bittersweet aftertaste. New Zealand actress Rose McIver (The CW's iZombie and ABC's Once Upon a Time) was a welcome surprise addition to the limited cast. Lissing and McIver's chemistry was very convincing and it left me craving for more.
Ultimately, the short film resonated with me. I laughed, cringed, heart ached, and laughed some more all under eight minutes. At the end it left me with one question: will I be satisfied if I died tomorrow? This is the question I want you to ask yourself too. If the answer is no, then make those changes in your life. Life is short and unpredictable; it can all be over in the next second. Be brave and take that first step towards the life you want. Tomorrow is another day is not good enough. Today is the day. Do not wait or you might end up regretting it when it is your turn to view your life review.
Live. Love. Laugh. Liberate.
- Avis Knows
