Our two minute short film. Anger, frustration and exasperation. AKA 'Strawberry Jam'
AN INDPETH STUDY ON 'STRAWBERRY JAM'
The concept behind this film is based on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). With the help of a credible source here's a brief synopsis of what this disorder encompasses.
"OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts that produce uneasiness, apprehension, fear, or worry, by repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing the associated anxiety, or by a combination of such obsessions and compulsions." (Wikipedia, 2011)
So in this little story there are two old friends meeting up. The first woman, whose house the film is set, has a chronic case of OCD. She and her house are symbolized by shades of blue. Her house to her is her sanctuary, a place she can control and adjust to her obsessive compulsions. In this sense it is also her prison for only here can she feel the most comfortable and safe. We'll call her 'Chalk'. The friend visiting, symbolized by clashing hues of reds and pinks, unintentionally shakes up Chalk's so carefully constructed and ordered way of life. We'll call the friend visiting 'Strawberry'.
Strawberry and Chalk have been friends for a long time. Possibly since they were very young. They haven't seen each other in a long time, possibly for years, even though they live in the same city. They have both told each other 'we really must meet up' countless times without either one really meaning it. Because as truth would have it as adults, they are very different people with now very different lives. Subconsciously they both realize this but still they cling to the idea of their relationship through either tiring social norms or a vague desire to rekindle the warmth and comfort that one feels when with that friend that truly understands them. In this modern day reunion, all presence of the latter, if ever there was, is long gone.
Strawberry enters Chalk's house brazenly. As they were once very familiar with each other Strawberry helps herself to the glasses in the cupboard, she helps herself to water, she spills the water all over the counter, unnoticed because she is too interested in her own account of the bus ride journey over. Strawberry is unaware that Chalk is very much irked by her growing overbearing presence. Strawberry does not intentionally nor maliciously intend to set off Chalk's disorders nor is she probably even aware of her condition (though never bothered to notice). Generally 'life of the party', 'warmed to' and welcomed, Strawberry is merely used to her now circle of friends and has adjusted to a certain order of people. This ineptness is usual to those that choose not to mingle with different kinds of people. We are all conditioned and attuned to those around us.
As the visit progresses it is evident that the two are very unalike. Strawberry as a nervous habit continues to talk shit which in turn distracts herself from her growing fidgeting and banging. Chalk's tick of scratching her neck that she thought she had gotten rid of has come out again with the over-bearing presence of her friend. This tension and frustration builds and builds until Chalk eventually explodes. At least in her mind where-as in-reality she has maintained her ever passive demeanor and ever-passive reaction of doing absolutely nothing. Even so Strawberry senses Chalk's inner-anger outburst (perhaps a perception she re-called from their past relationship) and trails off her chatter. After this visit, the two will probably never meet up again. Though they tried they should have left their once pleasant friendship a distant memory.
This short film is mostly an homage to Oliver Sacks, the famous neurologist and author who wrote about disorders and other such things. Funnily enough it is Strawberry in the film that can be seen to be currently reading a novel by him, she should know better.
This short film isn't really based on anyone in particular. I believe most people can relate to traits of either character. Something I found most interesting though was that after the class viewed the short film, most people felt more empathy towards Chalk, who was meant to be the one with the 'disorder' and somewhat cold and cagey. Sophie did a superb job acting this character on her part because she is nothing like her in real life thankfully. I'm playing Strawberry, though I'm more like her. Perhaps that's why I was surprised people preferred Chalk, a little anguish for the ego.
I'd like to mention Aimee for her superb camera work. And amazing eye (and speed) for editing. She has definitely got the skills and a natural aptitude for film. I really enjoyed this assignment. Especially the challenges around creating a final product that reflects the initial concept.
This probably took longer to read than to watch the dang thing so thanks for coming with me this far and hope you enjoy the film that's only two minutes.
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AaronSims PARALYZEDby crackfiji425,238 views
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