Amid the onslaught of superhero films from Disney and other behemoths, it’s easy to forget that indie filmmakers are what keeps the industry alive. The Jigsaw is one such film created by two visionary brothers (Basil and Rashad Al-Safar) and is a prime example of what can be achieved when vision and technical expertise meet. The question remains: What makes this short film such an excellent example of filmmaking and the horror genre as a whole? This post sets out to examine four reasons why horror fans (and movie lovers in general) will enjoy The Jigsaw.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/NMk1Vggt2hg
Its High Production Values Belay Its Low Budget
In the film industry, there are movies with high production values and those that don’t, as well as those that attempt but fall short. The Jigsaw is a fantastic example of the former, with its outstanding cinematography keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Part of this is due to the video production company in Dubai that enabled the Al-Safar brothers to produce their masterpiece. You can see right from the get-go that they have put their not-inconsiderable talents to use by keeping the action tight and exciting throughout the winter film.
The Acting Talent Is Superb
A film without actors is like a wedding without a cake…it simply doesn’t work (unless your Godfrey Reggio, of course!). However, what sets this short movie apart from its peers, is the quality of the acting. In fact, aside from the first few scenes in the shop, there is no spoken dialogue, a testament to the protagonist, Pedro Monteiro (who is simply credited as “Man”). Moreover, the scenes that include speech are performed with aplomb by none other than the utterly brilliant Daragh O’Malley. Having O’Malley in the film is nothing short of an honor. As a veteran actor, he brings a gravitas to the character he plays (you will have to watch the movie to understand why). Many have grown up watching Daragh throughout his stint as Regimental Sergeant Major Patrick Harper in the fantastic Sharpe series.
Or, if you are a real movie buff, you might find a partially funny scene in Withnail and I, perhaps at the start of his career! Moreover, Pedro Monteiro is perfect as the main protagonist, deftly evoking tension while retaining an air of obliviousness (until he finishes the contents of the box, that is) that maintains the viewer’s interest.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/omwQmD0-N6c
The Audio Sets A The Mood Perfectly
There is no doubt that audio is one of the most criminally undervalued aspects of filmmaking, and The Jigsaw proves it. Aside from the sound quality, which is fantastic by itself, it works throughout the movie to establish the mood and builds up to the perfect crescendo by the movie’s end. Furthermore, The Jigsaw contains the classic Vera Lynn song. We’ll Meet Again to significant effect. It adds a mysterious element to proceedings that helps to build up the suspension before the final act that…well, you will just have to see it to find out!
The Composition Is Exquisite
A great deal of films fail due to poor composition, which makes sense considering how challenging it is to master. However, there is no such issue with The Jigsaw, as the Al-Safar brothers have managed to keep things tight by using a variety of shots and angles, and various locations during the production. In fact, by the end, you will be cowering behind your sofa thanks to the skillful use of close-ups, panning, and lighting throughout.
For lovers of the horror genre, The Jigsaw is a must-see for various reasons. However, this short film is about more than one particular genre. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved through directorial experience, acting talent, and a keen understanding of what it takes to create an atmosphere and evoke emotion.
