Perform

A short psychological thriller written and directed by Fareed Kairon and starring Jon Allen Russo and Garance Chansigaud-Fargepallet.

The plot centres on Daniel (Russo) an actor who is auditioning for a part. For his audition, he is performing a dramatic scene with Jane (Fargepallet), a young actress who is also hoping get a role. Daniel deeply fancies Jane, however he does not know how to approach her. As time goes by, his mental state proceeds to deteriorate as he becomes obsessed with Jane and unhealthily influenced by the character that he plays.

The intriguing plot and Russo's dramatic performance are key stengths in this film that places the viewer into the mind of a mentally troubled man. Filmed in black-and-white, this short's atmosphere feels dark and uneasy as the story follows Daniel as he nervously and desperately pursues Jane, attemtping to make a connection. What is supposed to be a simple series of auditions turns sinister due to Daniel's awkward and disturbing behaviour and the eerie atmosphere is further enhanced by Coor Brow-Obles and Dominic Cade's unsettling music.

The screenplay effectively creates a story about a man's troubed state of mind and his desires, however, perhaps it would had been beneficial if the character of Jane was explored more thoroughly, just to give a better understanding regarding why Daniel likes her so much.

As mentioned, Russo's performance is one of the strongest elements and it is vital in order for the film to have an effect. Russo portrays a lonely man who is a talented actor and by being attracted to Jane and not being with her, he has found himself in a situation that is tearing him apart. The audition that the two of them take part in involves a scene where Russo plays a character who is ruthless, quite the opposite to Daniel, an insecure guy who seems to lack communication skills and self-esteem. The sinister character part appears to be having serious effects on Daniel, affecting his personality and making him question who he is. Of course, commendations also go to Fargepallet for her portrayal of a cheerful and talented actress.

Through Daniel, the film explores a variety of psychological subjects. Dissociative identity disorder seems to be one, as Daniel's mind appears to be intruded by the character that he plays. Additionally, themes involving insecurity, obsession self-esteem and self-expression are present. From another point of view, the film also provides an insight into the world of acting and seems to suggest that acting can influence people in negative ways.

This short looks into the psychological deterioration of an actor who is suffering from being unable to be happy and from being influenced by an acting role. It is a dark commentary about mental health.