Rope

Mr. Clay requested that I watch and review this. We meet a young man, driving to some woods. Once there, he begins to fix up a noose. It is evident that he means to end his life. Suddenly, a seemingly stray dog and he notice each other. Perhaps they even recognize something in one another. Does it take one lost individual to rescue another? This does not supply a final answer. It is ambiguous from start to finish, as it explores the theme of hope in the face of loss. Throughout all of this, we hear the lead's(the only person in front of the camera) monologue. It is disjointed, confusing. He repeats the words "rope, suit, park, hang", over and over. Not because they hold some special, secret meaning... because he knows that if he hesitates in this act of ultimate self-destruction, he may not complete it. And he can't currently imagine wanting to go on. We never determine exactly what has happened... there is a distinct hint, involving the woman of his life. He universalizes his pain. "When they call you... and they *will*...". It is clear that not only does he not feel like there is anything left, he believes that it is a matter of time before we all will. He is at the end, or so he has convinced himself. The acting is impeccable. I am stunned by the scope of the human emotion displayed not only by Jason Britt, no, also by the canine. The sedated score is fitting. This isn't about plot, it's a portrait of a certain state of mind, and as such, it is spot-on. Some will find this to be depressing. I will say that you must look beyond the situation we are witnessing. The message does not hit the viewer over the head. This is filmed and edited brilliantly. Very low-key, and about the mood conveyed. This is currently online, available for free, and I would definitely say that you should spend the four minutes on it if this sounds appealing to you. There is disturbing content in this. I recommend this to everyone who likes psychological shorts. 9/10