In Richard Fenwick’s short film ‘Soulmate’, viewers are plunged into a tantalizingly eerie glimpse of the future where the line between digital and emotional reality blurs. Mandeep Dhillon stars as Anna, a coder for Synaptic, an AI company on the cutting edge of technology. Amidst her coding grind, she becomes emotionally entangled with Neil (Joe Dempsie) in a virtual romance that quickly turns into a high-stakes secret.

The film’s narrative echoes the unsettling, yet compelling essence of ‘Black Mirror’, with its gripping blend of futuristic technology and raw human emotion. Anna’s romance with Neil unfolds within a simulation, a backdrop that’s as beautifully crafted as it is haunting. The cinematography by David Wright is spectacular, enhancing the film’s immersive experience.

Dhillon delivers a praiseworthy performance as Anna, embodying vulnerability and desperation with palpable intensity. Her struggle to keep her secret romance intact, while facing the looming threat of her boss (Andrew Cullum) discovering the breach, adds layers of suspense and emotional depth. Dempsie, as Neil, complements her performance with a nuanced portrayal that ties up the romantic theme.

With its sleek production values, hauntingly beautiful visuals, and a narrative that feels chillingly plausible, ‘Soulmate’ stands out as a short film that is both a riveting watch and a profound commentary on our relationship with technology and love. Fenwick’s delightfully blends science fiction with heartfelt drama, making it a must-see for fans of both genres. Highly recommended.