Based on the one-act play by the acclaimed British playwright Harold Pinter, ‘The New World Order’ tells the story of two ferocious interrogators who discuss their victim’s fate as he sits blindfolded. Director Richard Corso delivers an up-standing adaption that is subtly chilling and sinister.

Power is major theme in this short film as we bare witness to psychological torment, often for amusement or self-pleasure. Cody Dermon and Haydn Winston (Des and Lionel) give truly intimidating performances as the megalomaniac interrogators – albeit with a humorous edge. Physical torture is withheld from the audience and never shown – the unfolding drama is in the menacing threats through Pinter’s dialogue.

Visually, Corso has achieved a high-quality short with fine cinematography by Brekon Baxter. Costume and production design assist in time-stamping the period and building high levels of tensity. Blood-red lighting illuminates the interrogation room for added horror – but is cleverly juxtaposed with a jovial soundtrack throughout.

To adapt a stage-play into an 8-minute short is a brave step to walk, but Richard Corso has created an engaging short that is thrilling to watch. This experimental dramedy may not be for everyone, but the superb acting delivery alone is enough for us to recommend.