‘The Moment; is a poetic exploration of inner turmoil and the delicate balance between chaos and clarity. Directed by Craig Wrobleski and written and narrated by Irina Lytchak, this short film transcends the traditional confines of short narrative, leaving behind a trail of emotional intensity and vivid imagery.
The story centers on a woman (portrayed by Barb Mitchell) navigating the dense and enigmatic forest, both physically and metaphorically. From the opening, the high quality cinematography demands attention. Wrobleski’s lens captures the forest not as a backdrop, but as a living, breathing entity, pulsing with tension and mystery. The color grade further amplifies the mood – muted yet vibrant, it reflects the emotional spectrum of the protagonist’s journey.
The narrative, delivered via Lytchak’s captivating voiceover, guides us through a philosophical unraveling of life’s storms. “Life is a series of violent storms beating against the fabric of your very being”, she intones, her words weaving through the visuals with the precision of poetry. As the woman moves through the forest, the tension between fear and courage crackles in the air, underscored by the voiceover’s call for pause, reflection, and ultimately, acceptance. It’s a momentary glimpse of clarity in the chaos – “a moment of magic” as Lytchak beautifully puts it.
Our protagonist’s anxiety, palpable in her every step, resonates with anyone who has ever grappled with life’s inevitable disarray. And yet, there’s power in this moment of stillness, as the film reaches its breathtaking climax, offering the promise of breath and understanding. Bold, emotional, and visually stunning, ‘The Moment’ is a deeply personal film about the storms we weather, the wreckage we face, and the moments of peace that make it all make sense. Highly recommended.
