PITY

The scene is simple – a man, narrating over the images of him sitting in a car outside the home of the woman who has clearly wronged him. He’s bitter, agitated and clearly has a plan.

Within the space of only a few minutes, Pata manages to conjure all the feelings most of us will understand from relationships that have gone sour. Hopefully, not everyone will have had the extreme reaction ‘Anonymous’ has in Pity, but no doubt some will have – and some will have been on the receiving end. As such, the impact is sublime.

With the help of some fantastic editing, an oppressive sound design and some acting from Martin – the only character we see. The woman is left to the imagination, save for the odd through-the-window shot and glimpse of a photo. We don’t know what she’s meant to have done, other than finish the relationship. Clearly in the seven days they’ve been apart they guy’s life has fallen apart – but it’s always very apparent that he’s always been a few sandwiches short of a picnic all the time.

It’s the very simple premise and the confident, uncompromising way it’s depicted that shows the skill and talent from all involved. The stern monologue that accompanies the man’s descent into mental oblivion is precisely written, and delivered with a chilling calmness; something which often conflicts with the frustrated, violent images.

The short is now available online to view, and we recommend you do so at the earliest opportunity – you won’t be disappointed. The bottom line for the movie is something that everyone will relate to – love hurts.

INFO: CERT: TBC / DIRECTOR & SCREENPLAY: JOHN PATA / STARRING: JAKE MARTIN / RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW