WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
First, the Recap:
The realities of missed opportunity. How many circumstances do we find ourselves in the midst of where taking action was paramount, yet not enacted? Chances to make an impact, show kindness to another, set the wheels of fortune in motion, even potentially life-changing moments that so suddenly appear, then pass by. The day is normal, like any other, at a local train station. A man (Anshuman Sharma) sits minding his own business, taking in the morning paper, and readying himself for the workday. However, on this particular AM, a new element is unexpectedly about to enter his day.
A woman (Marina Pires) walks by in close proximity, catching the man’s attention, the two exchanging glances, with immediate attraction and instant infatuation ensuing. As they board the train, happening to sit within visual distance of each other while embarking to their respective destinations, their eyes meet again, and what unfolds is a wondrous journey of a future filled with all the joys of what it means to be in love–from the “firsts”, to deeper commitment, to the beauty of growing old together–it’s the ideal scenario we strive and long for. But, it’s only a fleeting glimpse, as the time expires and dreams fade, the consequences recorded by a most unexpected observer.
Next, my Mind:
Stimulating, beautifully emotional, inspiring in its premise yet heart-rending, stirringly contemplative, and raw at its core, director/actor Sharma’s amazingly original perspective on the notions of love at first sight and the repercussions of indecision and apprehension completely hits you where it’s intended–the heart. With the additional inclusion of an extremely clever voiceover narration that follows events as they transpire, one which is only identified at the film’s potently executed finale, this is 10-minutes more than well spent. Also, the affecting music score assists in providing additional atmosphere to a magical adventure along with the fluid imagery of things to come–or perhaps not, as the narrative takes a sobering and saddening turn by its conclusion.
Sharma’s performance as the Man here works exceedingly well, especially when there is no actual dialogue present to rely on. It is an entirely visual picture of someone who’s successful, yet would consider himself an “everyman”, captured by beauty in an instant like so many of us have before. The immediate sense of yearning to connect with the woman he’s seen is emotively showcased by Sharma, and the realistic portrayal of disappointment that ultimately comes is also effectively delivered. Pires is radiant as the Woman, a carefree and happy soul whose own sense of sudden and mutually shared admiration is equally engaging and evident, even as she also sits looking straight at what she desires, envisioning all that could be, yet is paralyzed by inaction. Pires embodies her own character’s giddiness then sadness and regret with poise and solid acting.
The real kicker is the voiceover narration, I believe done by actor David Walters, who has a very distinct opportunity to shine as the film’s rather unorthodox guide to the proceedings, fantastically well-played. In total, “Station” stands out as a excellently conceived and perfectly executed independent short film effort well worthy of recognition, once again showing how much more diverse the ideas about love and real life can be given and taken in.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
Anshuman is an awesome actor and a filmmaker. My best wishes to him.