As a film that will either greatly move you or leave you emotionless, "Pass Me By" dares to be different and not just for the sake of standing out. By telling the tale from the perspective of a person who cares for the depressed individual, it challenges what we have seen in regards to stories about mental illness.
It is a beautifully done romance. Even if you hated it, as my sister did, this short will leave you thinking about the true meaning of perseverance and sharing a love that endures all things.
"Pass Me By" is masterfully shot, especially for a student film. The score and soundscape as a whole evoke an unforgettable ambiance, the latter of which is the film's best quality. The performance of the lead, Anna Rich, is something to see. Rare is it that a student film has even passable acting, let alone a Tour De Force like the one Ms. Rich delivers. I am eager to see her in more things. I can't find much on her as of yet, but she could be somebody soon. The male co-star falls short of her, but it isn't his story. I will be on the lookout for the director and co-writer, Jared Passante, as well.
If you do not get stuck in the non-linear editing style - this seemed to be the biggest critique I heard of it at NFFTY 2015 - you will be provided with a compelling short film. It is one of the few I have ever seen that has drawn such contrasting opinions, which to me is the mark of a good movie and the reason I had to write this review. All of that and the fact that I couldn't stop thinking about it.
