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Directed by Jake Olive
Starring Adam Coveney, Lizzy Owen Smith, Zak Stratton-Taylor, Jake Olive & Benjamin Gee
Short Film Review by Daniel Reason
Transition is a unique film by Jake Olive that explores time travel and multiple dimensions in a very ambitious way, especially for a short film. By having some clear influences from other movies - for example Christopher Nolan’s Inception (2010) and Rian Johnson’s Looper (2012) - it feels familiar, while still feeling fresh and creative, which leads to a new experience.
Adam Coveney’s performance as Rick Bridgers is a clear highlight, as he carries us through the film perfectly. We are always on his side and we want him to succeed, this is to be applauded as our connection begins within the first few lines of dialogue. The dialogue doesn’t feel forced, but rather necessary. We are not constantly bombarded by exposition, as it is left to us to try to answer the many questions that are asked – the film doesn’t hold our hands and give us the answers directly, but rather it respects the audience and allows for more of a conversation about it’s meaning. However, the dialogue is a bit too fast at times and so this can lead to some minor confusion – this is primarily due to the film being quite fast paced, despite its roughly 12-minute run time. The screenplay is written magnificently, by Jake Olive. It is easy to understand and does make a great first impression. Its consistency is to be admired, as it would be easy for a film, such as this, to become ridiculous and too unbelievable, due to themes that are being explored, but it is easy to grasp and will not leave you in a state of confusion.
The music is used incredibly well and matches the fast pace perfectly. The Hans Zimmer score that was used throughout suits the tone of the film brilliantly. Jake Olive once again demonstrates his talents through his editing – it’s fantastic, especially in the final act. It seems to run parallel within the music and adds to the film’s energy. The cinematography, by Abbie Humphries and Zak Stratton-Taylor, is very well done as well. The use of environmental lighting is used effectively, which leads to some breath-taking shots – in particular, when the characters appear as silhouettes within a sunset background, an image that will be implanted in your brain even after the credits have stopped rolling.
Transition provides us with an alternative twist on time travel, the possibility of multiple dimensions and asks whether it is possible to travel between them. It grabs your attention from the first moment and takes you on a mind-bending journey. While some things are, unfortunately, left unexplained, it will have a lasting impact and will encourage multiple viewings to understand it more – and you will want to watch again.
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