Review: Who is Elmore Dean? (2017)

Overall, 'Who is Elmore Dean?' overcomes the creative challenges presented when filming due to an incredibly talented cast and crew. From direction, to acting, and cinematography, the project solidifies itself as a powerhouse in the short film market; sho

+ Recommended - Short, Comedy, Drama

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Backed by a truly transformative actor (Timothy J Cox), 'Who is Elmore Dean?' expresses the anxiety one might feel about the unknown in a morbidly intriguing way. Elmore Dean's apartment forms a mind of its own on potentially the most important day of the songwriter's life.

One of the most dazzling aspects of the film is the capability of cinematographer Olivia Kimmel. Kimmel's talent allows for the audience to follow the meat and potatoes of the story with very few cuts and transitions. The creative team understands that in order to show how oppressive anxiety is, they must keep the story contained and almost claustrophobic; subsequently, the camera and the story never leave the apartment.Without the plot synopsis it might be difficult for people to pick up what writer-director Max Rothman is putting down. That said, it does warrant multiple viewings and will most likely reward you for doing so. Plus, the short is only five minutes and could be viewed on your lunch break or in-between partners on your next speed-date (not judging).

This short would actually be a perfect opportunity for a series of short films focusing on the effects of anxiety. A character like Elmore Dean would be the person to follow, kind of like a case study, showing what anxiety can do on a day-to-day basis. Often times, we aren't exposed to celebrities or successful people that are dealing with this mental illness. A continuation of the story would be an amazing opportunity for the film's creators and actor to explore this topic more in-depth. We do get hints of a day-to-day study, even though it takes place over one day, but what intrigues me about the idea of getting the whole cast and crew back is tackling more creative challenges and expressing the shape and form of anxiety when it's personified.

Overall, 'Who is Elmore Dean?' overcomes the creative challenges presented when filming due to an incredibly talented cast and crew. From direction, to acting, and cinematography, the project solidifies itself as a powerhouse in the short film market; showing filmmakers everywhere that even on a smaller budget you can make an exceptional piece of art.

Watch the full movie on the IMDB page and let us know what you think of the film in the comments below!