Feature Film Review

Film Info:
The Smiths could be any family. They could
be your neighbors. When 12-year-old Jason looks in his neighbor's window, he learns he's not the only kid living in an abusive environment. What he learns will change
his life forever. .

Written By: Jamie Dierks
Directed By: Bunee Tomlinson
Genre: Drama
9 Minutes

IndyRed.com

NO ONE KNOWS ( 2012 )

    One of the hardest things about creating a short is trying to craft a decent story in under ten minutes. A story that in one form or another manages to reach your viewer and make them feel something. Anything. In this respect, No One Knows hits the nail on the head and leaves a slight burn mark. One of those nasty burns that seem to persist long after the fact. No One Knows will leave you rather uneasy, from a lot of angles.... so to speak.
   (Spoilers) Now, I hate giving away any details when it comes to a projects story. In this case however I don't have much choice. Hannah looks like your average kid from a seemingly decent middle class home. But, like real life, not everything is as it seems. Her neighbor, Jason get's wise to the potential abuse going on. And what happens next..... Well, watch and find out!
   The really disturbing thing about this film is not the twist ending, but rather the obvious plot aspects. It'll leave most of us feeling cold and maybe a little angry inside because we all know it happens. That's the really scary thing here. Truth is far worse than fiction. Kind of makes you want to beat your head sometimes and wonder just what the hell the world is coming to. This film will have you rooting one way and sharply steer you off in another.
   There's only really 2 main characters in this. The two kids. And I must say the actors did a fabulous job! Not so much what they say, but rather the expressions used when saying it. The supporting cast of adults get the same praise. There's nothing better (Or not better in this case) than watching a woman try and fight off her natural impulse, and a clearly sick man trying to pass himself off as normal. I guess what I'm saying is that overall this film has some damn fine acting. Always a great thing in our independent neck of the woods! On the technical side there's nothing wrong here. Maybe a shot or two I thought could have been left out... but that's also just my opinion. For the most part this film looks great visually with some pretty decent editing and post work. I love the dolly shots! Something I don't get to see every day in the independent film world! I also have to give a thumbs up to the sound guys. Both the recordists and the post editors/mixers. Very nice job folks. The sound really pulled the movie up another notch!

   No One Knows is a well done, chilling and slightly demented kind of short film. Some good production, an interesting twist on a common story and good acting bring this piece to life. Kind of leaves you thinking how the abuse of one person can change who they should have become.... and not always for the better. A solid 4.0 out of 5.0.

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