By: debbie lynn elias
As comes as no surprise, Dances With Films 14th Annual Film Festival is reaping what looks like another fertile crop of films, both shorts and features alike, and showcasing some up and coming filmmakers in the process. I recently had a chance to screen OPEN 24 HOURS which marks its world premiere at DWF as part of the Fusion Shorts Group 2 at 5:00 p.m. on June 8, 2011.
Written, directed and produced by newcomer, Ryan Francis, OPEN 24 HOURS is what Dances With Films is all about. Described to me by Francis himself, and as indicated in the DWF synopsis, “When your ex-husband is sharing a booth with your current lover, and the hit-men you’ve hired to kill him are sitting a few tables down, with two undercover cops there to question him for possibly robbing a bank, all at the coffee shop where you’re waiting tables, maybe it’s best if you don’t wait around for the tip!” Now a synopsis like that is gonna pique any girl’s curiosity, especially mine.
Out of the box, I have to commend Francis. This short film belies what is often submitted as a “first time effort.” He has done a very nice job with every aspect of the film – from acting to editing to lighting to music.
As for the acting, I have to ask – where has Brooke Theiss been hiding? As our stalwart and stealthy waitress, she is a standout and goes toe-to-toe with David Youse’s Hank for a dynamic verbal showdown. She has a great command of the screen and particularly, that scene. Youse is an amalgamation of emotion here and plays it very well, vascillating between calm and frenetic/panicked, confident, cocky and afraid.
The story set-up is well executed and is propelled by the use of close-ups and mid shots identifying the players. Pacing is timed perfectly. Although there is one moment of dialogue and scene that cheapens the story and plays into an obvious filler moment that doesn’t work, the overall work is well done. The characters and story are interesting and compelling enough that I can easily see OPEN 24 HOURS expanding into a feature, complete with the back story of Hank and Ellen and the bank robbery.
Technically, the film looks good. Using all natural lighting but for a few “bounce’ cards, imagery is crisp, clean, and razor-edged. Framing is tight, personal. Editing is exemplary. Music is pitch perfect! And yes, even the end credits are creative and well done.
Another “Must See Festival Film” at Dances With Films 2011 – OPEN 24 HOURS.
Written and Directed by Ryan Francis.
