WATCH THE FILM HERE
First, the Recap:
So, you’re making a choice in any given moment, perhaps without thinking about possible ramifications that could come from it. This would usually be because said choice isn’t one that should actually cause any harm or otherwise inopportune results for anyone or anything. However, when the choice made is out of spite, frustration, or anger, maybe due diligence to mull it over first might be a wiser course of action. In the remote woods of an unnamed place, one man (Carlo Bruno) enjoys the isolation and peace found within his cabin getaway. Old time music wafting through the air along with minute sounds of an otherwise tranquil forest outside, it is a placid domain, about to be interrupted.
Realizing the sereneness of his being has been upended by the rasping, grating call of a blue jay outside, the man grabs his rifle filled with ill intent, ready to resort to the only remedy it seems is on his mind. But, as the shot rings out and the source of annoyance drops to the ground, the unexpected explodes into reality all around him. Bullets fly like swarming bees, tearing into everything around him as he dives for cover. Soon thereafter, the earth shakes with rocket and grenade blasts. Desperate and totally aghast, the man attempts to return fire at an undisclosed, unseen enemy, only to be riddled again with gunfire. His fate seemingly sealed, the man has little time to reflect about what has brought this upon him.
Next, my Mind:
Delivering it’s extremely clever message about rash, hasty decisions and the fallout that can occur from them which is never considered beforehand, now 21-year old filmmaker Marina Bruno’s 11-minute short film effort truly exemplifies creative thinking at its best. With crisp cinematography and its simple one location setting, the narrative bursts into action from start to finish, following this one man’s experience in what it is to not think things through before jumping into associated deeds, then discovering very quickly how the ripples of said measures can have far-reaching effects on themselves and others. The war sequences are insanely intense here, and certainly paint a vivid portrait of consequence and the internal strife we as people face when having decided wrongly about something.
Carlo Bruno’s performance here is excellent, presenting the lone woodsman as one who would simply desire to have his intended seeking of lonely solace remain as such, even from the “bothersome” noise of the very woods where he resides for this pursuit. Allowing his emotions to get the better of him, the option chosen to rid himself of this becomes his own downfall, again stressing the film’s purposeful message, and it leads to a fantastic finale which puts a truly meaningful cap on the events portrayed. In total, “Civil War” stands as one of the most savvy short film efforts this reviewer has seen with its biting commentary about human nature and the lessons that should be learned from it all.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
