Through the Stew

An experimental short drama directed by Sal Redpath and Ben Archer and written by Archer and starring Willow Barrett, Syd Walsh and Chuck Bones.

The description that accompanies the trailer on YouTube states that this eight-minute short is about a young man named Anton (Barrett) who is in New York City and is spending his last day among the living trying to take care of unfinished businesses. By viewing the film, one might struggle to agree with this explanation regarding the plot. What is seen in the film is Anton waking up in an isolated location, barefoot and with an old, small radio. He then embarks on a journey through New York that involves meeting a friend, visiting his girlfriend (Walsh), riding a train, going to his apartment and generally traveling through the city. Then isn't anything that directly indicates that he is going to die and he does not appear to have a significant purpose.

The creativity that went into this project deserves commendations, taking under consideration that the budget was low and filming took place over the course of a couple of days with a great deal of improvisation. Shot in black-and-white with Super 8 film, this short was inspired by the No Wave cinema movement and captures glimpses of life in New York City. The band Sunglasses For Jaws contributed to the film's notable soundtrack that includes 50's Noir radio recordings.

This is an experimental film, however (as mentioned above), it probably would had benefited if the plot was more clear, that the story involves a person's last day alive. That aside, it might also had been better if the main character was explored more, who he is and what his purpose is.

The cast consists of non-professional actors and dialogue is limited. As the main protagonist, Anton seems to be an outsider. Smoking cigarettes, carrying a small radio and dressed in what appears to be punk rock clothing, he does not say much (very little actually) and it is hard for viewers to understand him. Other characters are seen briefly as Anton interacts with them and during their short appearance they are convincing.

What messages are here? What kind of themes are explored? Since the plot is not clear, these might be hard to comprehend. Religion is one, which seems to be addressed by the presence of a couple of characters attempting to spread religious messages. Another might be the idea of being an outsider, of having lost one's path in life.

Fans of experimental films and the No Wave movement are the ones who are most likely to appreciate this short. Others might see this as a viewing experience that does not have much to say and feels empty.