As a long time contributor to the World of short film and as ever truly representing fine film making. Here is a piece that speaks not just from Nottingham but subtly highlights an epidemic throughout the country. For me it tackles masculinity in away that we do not see too often, there is no football, no boxing none of the usual props that are normally used to reflect what we are supposed to be as men. Simon uses contemporary methods realistic dialogue and performances to reflect what is happening today. The relationships that are shown are also very well played out, within the group of young (asbo) teens, between father and son, even the apathy of the shopkeeper. The fact that all the neighbours are too scared to get involved.
I have no doubt that Ellis & his team can transfer his storytelling ability to a longer form quite easily and i am looking forward to buying my ticket and taking my seat. But i do hope that he will keep his hand, even occasionally in the shorts arena to keep the bar at a level new filmmakers have to try and surpass.
From Telling Lies (the first film of his i saw) to Soft he has consistently got better and shown that there is more than one talented Film maker in Nottingham.
