No matter how you slice it, death plays a massive part in our lives. Our own impending doom, although a dreaded thought in our minds, can be tolerated simply because it's easy to cope with a "future" inevitability. Akin to knowing how much more we'll pay for something, as long as the current payments are low. The death of a loved one however, is another story altogether. Aside from the fact that person is gone, it's an instant reminder that our own future, no matter how far off we think it should be... may be closer than we realize. But what about kids? We all know they think a little differently than we do. How do they deal? Enter "Coming To Terms", a visually beautiful short film that hides it's dark nature with outstanding visual appeal. Packed into a tiny ten minutes is some powerful stuff ladies and gents, I promise that much. For an independent short without a major studio budget, David Bertran delivers not only a solid story, but ensures it looks great as well. Featuring an ending that may not be what we all hope for, it's a powerful reminder that real life can be messy, and that showcasing it as a fiction can evoke real emotion from the viewer. The technical aspects of this short film require very little discussion. Production and post production are all seemingly top notch. I can't stress enough that for an indie film, "Coming To Terms" looks splendid. Easily, even the harshest of viewers will find very little to nit-pick from the visuals. Attention was also paid to the audio and lighting, bringing home the full package and making this short film feel much bigger. The edit was kept clean and to the point, driving the narrative forward without any fancy fast cutting. As I wrote above, the perceived production value is huge, showcasing some real talent behind the lens. The cast themselves perform admirably, especially the children. I will admit that some of the dialog felt slightly dramatized, mainly during a scene where a coming death is explained to children. However, I will also admit that I've never been put into a similar situation. I have no point of reference, and may someday find myself having a conversation with a child, that ends up sounding much the same. How would you explain death to a kid? Softly and over the top? Or, like life itself, harsh and unforgiving? Not something I would look forward to, and a conversation for the director and actor to decide themselves, when portraying the character(s). Aside from my own confusion over the presentation of one scene, everything else is top notch and completely believable. Handshakes must be given to whoever cast these wonderful actors. Again, especially the children. Kids and film are hit and miss at the best of times. I've seen the stresses of keeping "the giggles" at bay. Excellent job all around. David Bertran presents a dramatic yet sad fiction that plays it's cards in a real non-fiction sort of way. Maybe that's the power that kept me watching. Production values alone don't make a good film, but when they are presented alongside a good story, a reaction takes place that just elevates the production exponentially. "Coming To Terms" is just what the title says it is, although the particular way these "terms" are came by may leave you unsettled at the end. Just like in real life, things don't always happen like you think. Usually, the complete opposite. I, myself was completely entertained for ten or so minutes, and that my friends is what it's all about. Nicely done or gritty as hell, if an indie film, or any film for that matter, manages to hold my attention fully until the credits roll... that makes it a darn fine production in my books. Hats off cast and crew. Nice work. -JT
