Page Peter Wilson’s short drama film, ‘Self Serve’ is a powerful 7-minute exploration of mental health, particularly depression, within the black male community. Written by and starring John Armond, the film follows the inner conflict of a man as he grapples with his own mental health and perceived notions of masculinity and race.
Armond’s portrayal of multiple versions of himself adds a unique layer to the narrative, with each rendition delving deeper into his character’s struggle with depression. Eric Lovett Jr’s cinematography captures the intense emotions portrayed by Armond in a skilful and poignant manner, leaving viewers with a deep understanding of the issue at hand.
Armond’s performance is commendable throughout, effortlessly conveying the complexity of his inner turmoil. The dialogue is beautifully crafted by Wilson, creating seamless discourse that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
Overall, ‘Self Serve’ is an incredibly poignant yet impactful short film. The exploration of depression in the black male community is one that is not often highlighted, making the film’s message all the more critical. Wilson and Armond’s collaboration on this project has resulted in a powerful piece of film art which I highly recommend. Its unique perspective easily separates it from the rest of the pack.
