Breakups are hard. There's no question about that and I don't think anyone would argue the fact, aside from complete sociopaths that is. The breakup scenario has been used countless times in film simply because it can be manipulated in so many ways. The interesting concepts revolve around what happens after a breakup, and no matter the genre, a lot of fun can be had using the aftermath as a plot. Let's be honest though, a lot of dramatic and yes, even thriller styled arcs can also be had using the same subject matter; such as the idea presented in "A Figure Lone." The setup is a familiar one. Girl, breakup and fresh new apartment. We've seen this before but writer Marissa Carpio decided to make things a little different. From what we see onscreen, our lead character, Ella, is the cause of the breakup. There are no terribly mean or sinister reasons, just simply a woman who, like most "real" people, battles insecurities and possibly some slight depression. "A Figure Lone" is not an exercise dealing with the stereotypical "bad" man. We simply end up with two people that broke up because maybe, just maybe it wasn't meant to be. Or was it? As the film progresses we find our lead being harassed by some seemingly evil presence. The "figure lone" if you will. As this short film plays on, we see both the effects of fear and of the breakup itself, as Ella reaches out to whomever will listen. Ultimately, right when we think we got things figured out... well, to get the ending you'll just have to watch. The visual and audio experience "A Figure Lone" sports is top-notch all the way. For an indie low budget film especially, this film is very nice on the eyes. Director Nana Dakin leads the small cast through some very convincing performances, giving credit and character to a saturated genre. Where "A Figure Lone" does fall a little short is the pacing; but not in the way you are probably thinking. The visual edit is really quite good, keeping the ball rolling and allowing the film to remain interesting, even through a lot of shots designed to be visual only. Such as montage styled clips of the day-to-day happenings of our character. The pacing issue I mentioned above could actually be considered a compliment, considering it involves the ending. Put bluntly... right when things start happening they stop. Credits roll. You may think this is a good thing but seriously, I wanted more. Maybe not more added to the length, but maybe a little less "day to day happenings" styled shots. I actually think this particular film could be trimmed down by a minute or two, eliminating a few of the repetitive shots and making a really fast paced thriller. Which brings me to my next point. The entire lead-up and ending. "A Figure Lone" was clearly meant to leave the viewer hanging, a cliff hanger of sorts. I, personally wasn't a fan. We have an entire movie that plays on the characters-- and viewers idea that maybe our lead is just... well... going crazy. With all the stress of the breakup and the new place, we would completely understand and relate. I can't count the amount of times I swear someone is in my house and it always scares the hell out of me. This was a truly great setup. I understood, I got it. Then, just when I think things could be alright... BAM! That last scene. Here's the thing. By adding that final segment you essentially threw away the story you just told. All of it. The mental credibility of the character just went out the window. Then, you simply leave it, you don't elaborate or anything. Just... done. Again, all the credibility you built was just lost. What was the point of the character lead-up? It would be different, if our mystery character showed up half way, and the rest of the story played out around him/her/it. Here however, since this was at the end... why? Why introduce a character in the last shot? Unless of course, there is more to the story. A sequel? But if not, what was the point. It was better as a mental exercise for our lead. The addition of our lone figure wasn't a surprise ending, it was a pointless one since we are left with nothing after. Not even enough to "imagine" what may have happened next. For all I know, it may have been Ella's fourth cousin's best friend come to spray for roaches. I really did enjoy this title, well, most of it anyway. The technical elements, dialog writing, direction and acting are all top notch. What's not to like? It may be a little long winded at times, but when something plays this well it's a good thing. Right? My personal opinion is that the climax of the film was where things broke down a little. Having us completely believe we have a "mind playing tricks on you" scenario, then, turning that upside down but not elaborating at all... well, you get the idea. Still however, easily one of the better indie films I've watched this year so far. Nicely done. -MC
