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First, the Recap:
The complications and aftermath associated with a lapse in judgment. When an unforeseen circumstance arises that causes a kneejerk reaction within us, whether it is birthed out of fear, nervousness, uncertainty or basic callous behavior, one thing stands true more often than not–the lingering effects are not usually anything that benefits us. While there is an undeniable truth that specific bonds are formed between parents and children, what happens when that bond is broken by the unthinkable, and an ensuing choice becomes desperate–and desperately unsettling. A mother and father (Kyra Lehman & Daniel Leonard) enjoy a beautiful Saturday at the beach with their three children (Charlotte Leonard, Quin Cooper, & Jude Leonard). A sunny gorgeous day that takes an unanticipated turn where two parents are facing that exact plight.
Next, my Mind:
This critic literally has to proclaim from the beginning here that it would truly be the BEST decision if filmgoers chose NOT to read a SINGLE thing about this little over eight and half minute short screened at the 2020 Berlin Revolution Film Festival BEFORE seeing it, as doing so would take something away from the utterly gut-punching impact this narrative carries thanks to writer/director/producer Pegah Pasalar. With an admittedly brilliant utilization of conjecture to form the foundation of its story, the film eases the viewer along beautifully and with total intentionality, then escalates the proceedings into a vein of intensity and wrenching emotional tempests before delivering a final act that is equally heartbreaking and decidedly disturbing.
Rarely is it more evident why I gravitate so much towards indie cinema than what is showcased here, as it really illustrates why the indie film community is filled with not only outside-the-box filmmakers, but their unwavering, unflinching boldness when it comes to what they choose to depict and address in their works really knows few limits. It is this creative audacity that lends the potency to efforts such as this one, and it is highly admirable to see a filmmaker willing to step out and offer a tale like this one, as just being frank, it may get to some people in not so good ways depending on your ability to appreciate the art form and the aims and intentions of a film, even if its primary theme isn’t always east to take.
This effort profoundly speaks to the human condition when it comes to events involving the totally unexpected, the shocking, the unimaginable, and it does so with such a deft touch thanks to excellent writing and some seriously artistic camerawork from Robin A. Cuadra that makes the visual reverberations as we witness what unfolds just as powerful as the emotional ones we experience along with it. Rash decision making during times of stress gets amplified here, but more of it in the most subdued yet quietly extreme manner that it is a palpable force to reckon with. I know this sounds quite sensationalized, but I am not kidding here folks, you WILL be affected by this film and it does leave an indelible impression upon you without question.
Lehman and Leonard do wonderfully as the mother and father, two regular people and a loving couple who adore their children to no end, this is evident. Their desire to enjoy a sunny day outside on a Saturday at the oceanside as the perfect getaway is likewise evident as they romp and play in the sand and water. Events that follow this initial stint of relaxation and frivolity set the tone for the rest of their time and it is an exercise in restraint and understated, emotive acting that carries the characters through to the film’s end, just so well performed by both actors, who really make you feel a lot without always saying a single thing. The children involved do a solid job themselves, enjoying characters being kids, and I give them full credit for being in the film given its ultimate premise and purpose.
An additional appearance is also made by Kathleen Ruhl as the children’s grandmother. So, in total, “Saturday” was also one of my particular stand-out efforts at this year’s Berlin festival, thanks to its overtly daring narrative, emotional bluntness, and willingness to be so candidly open about those things we never wish to conceive occurring. Due to these factors, we are treated to yes, a darker direction of story, but also to an indie film masterpiece.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
