Burning the Bed (2003)

Atmospheric Irish drama about a couple separating. Although strongly connected, they decide to burn their bed in cathartic and symbolic manner.

Director:

Denis McArdle

Writer:

Patrick Chapman

Stars:

Aidan Gillen, Gina McKee

2 wins.

Cast

Credited cast:
Aidan Gillen	...	Stephen
Gina McKee	...	Caroline

Storyline

Atmospheric Irish drama about a couple separating. Although strongly connected, they decide to burn their bed in cathartic and symbolic manner.

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Taglines:

Methods for moving on...

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Genres:

Short | Drama

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Details

Official Sites:

Official site

Country:

Ireland

Language:

English

Release Date:

31 October 2003 (Ireland)

Filming Locations:

Ireland

Box Office

Budget:

€70,000 (estimated)

Company Credits

Production Co:

Songway Films Ireland

Technical Specs

Runtime:

13 min

Sound Mix:

Dolby Digital

Color:

Color (Kodak Eastmancolor) Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.85 : 1

User Reviews

The Ritual of Goodbye....

I was fortunate to see this short recently due to the generosity of two special people. And was very grateful to have had the chance to share in the experience that is "Burning The Bed." The couple in focus here, played by Aidan Gillen and Gina McKee, are separating and leaving their home set off a beach in Ireland. The short film portrays their journey towards final separation as together, they demolish their bed - burning the remains on the beach in a bond fire.

There is little dialog; most of the "story" of the breakup is conveyed through the eyes of the actors and the small clues provided throughout the film. Both Aidan Gillen and Gina McKee give wonderful performances

• taking us with them through the pain and loss of saying goodbye.

My strongest impression, the image that stays with me the most - is the reluctance of Aidan's character to actually end the romance. His character is obviously the one being left, and while it isn't a joyful situation for either of them (the pain is there in her eyes as well as his, tears flowing for both) - it is his perspective that holds my attention the most. Because I see a man who loves his lady enough to bow to her wishes, despite his not wanting it to end, and to undergo this film's ritual of goodbye - as if to please her, like a last gift.

(It truly is a woman's idea - the notion of deconstructing the bed and burning it to ash, rather than a man's - IMHO.) Very atmospheric, scenic (the waves should have their own billing...lol) - and wonderfully done by all. I recommend it for all to see.