FILM INFO: Since time began, God has employed Saints to help manage the overwhelming task of keeping the mortal world in order. But today is their last day of work as God has fired every Saint.
WRITTEN BY: Gaëlle Mourre DIRECTED BY: Gaëlle Mourre GENRE: Drama TIME: 20 Minutes.
One of the things I love about reviewing Independent Film is coming across a production that simply doesn't have any indie staples attached to it. Nothing pleases me more than watching something and realizing: I could be watching this piece in a theater or on Cable TV, and never suspect a low budget production lies before me. Case in point? Gaëlle Mourre's short film "Awakening." I can honestly say I enjoyed it from bookend to bookend... so to speak. The idea behind this gem is original enough to spark curiosity, and completely delivers. I was easily pulled into a world that was moving on and changing, as I spectated from the comfort of my living room. Religion based film is hit and miss. However, I'm thrilled to write that "Awakening" falls into the former category. The hint of humor is just right, and so is the sad feeling that enters your mind when you seriously consider the plot of the film. But yes reader, it is entertaining and yes, it does look great. The location used for "Awakening" completely captures the vibe I would associate by simply reading the description. Perfectly. Beautiful camerawork and colors, some humorous but believable props ( Saint Margaret's Telephone ) and even the plaques of achievement, mounted on the walls, all contributed to making the world of "Awakening" feel completely real. Adding to the golden fire already lit, is the comedic happenings going on all around. Nothing is more funny than calling "God" and being put in queue by an answering machine. Totally loved that! It's not all fun and games though as the underlying content could be considered quite deep, for anyone wishing to think to much into it. Could this happen? Has it happened? And lastly... does the Devil really feel the need to push a broom around? Ha ha. The lead role is taken by Tracy Wiles and one hell of a job she does do. Her strong performance as Saint Margaret really pushed this short into the pro territory, matching things up with everything else this short film seems to have. Add to that an excellent job by all the supporting cast, and I can easily say this film would have been a winner even without all the bells and whistles. The camerawork always compliments the scene, and some nearly flawless edits provide a sharp flowing narrative. Slick and top notch. I can't even think of any spot in this film that I thought looked off in some way. I'm also glad to write that great care was put into the audio, which is another elevating factor that makes "Awakening" a great short film. Overall and in the end, pun intended, Gaëlle Mourre simply has a nice piece of work here. A great story, well written out and acted in an amazing manner by some excellent cast members. Some great set pieces, and actual set itself, with some excellent post production help to boot. There really is nothing here not to like. "Awakening" continues to blur the line between Independent and Hollywood; I'm quite honored to have been one of the first to review this great film. In my humble opinion "Awakening" has earned their rating easily, and I look forward to any future work Gaëlle Mourre puts forth. BBB
