Ziggy Schulting’s ‘Grievers’ is a chaotic short – funny, eccentric and totally off its rocker. It opens with five women sitting in a support group circle, though it’s not exactly clear what kind of group this is. Penelope, played with bitter wit by Mila Zubair, has no idea either. But as the conversation unfolds, it becomes obvious that this isn’t your average heartache therapy. When the truth hits, it’s hilariously.
The character work is what makes this short shine. The woman in the room are equally eccentric, dramatic and unpredictable – and that’s exactly what makes them so funny. The reactions are priceless. The script is foul-mouthed but clever, filled with sparky, bitchy banter that somehow feels both ridiculous and true. A clash of personalities are at play, and the result is a kind of controlled chaos that really works.
At times, it feels like an unhinged sketch comedy piece, but there’s charm underneath the madness. It’s just bold, funny and confidently strange. A proper comedic short with a lot of bite.
Production-wise, it’s solid. Adam Marley’s cinematography gives it a crisp, high-quality look, and his editing keeps the pace snappy without feeling rushed. It’s clearly well produced, and the storyline thrives on personality. Hats off to the entire cast, that also includes; Suzanne Miller, Madison Caan, Watson Rose and Leanne Coupland. A bold, chaotic comedy with women at the wheel. Highly entertaining.