Written and directed by Brent Taiaroa, ‘Kidney’ is a short drama film that explores the tension between a childhood bully and their victim. Rosa Garcia-Knight leads the cast as Holly, a school-time nemesis of Kendra (Alyssa Wright). Jill Roberts completes the cast as Dawn, Kendra’s devoted mother. The film delves into Kendra’s life-threatening necessity for a kidney transplant, and Holly and has been discovered as a rare match. ‘Kidney’ is a short that examines character conflict, showcasing themes of bullying and mother-daughter relations.
The 13-minute film opens with Kendra and Dawn arriving at Holly’s house. Hostility and tension unravel between the pair, opening up unforgotten wounds. Despite Holly’s reluctance to donate her kidney to Kendra, the film teases forgiveness as the ending credits begin to roll. Despite proclaiming to be a zero/low-budget short, the film delivers remarkably well throughout, albeit with minor audio issues between scenes.
Brent Taiaroa has created an interesting narrative that probes the audience to empathies with both sides. The storyline of forgiveness and regret, combined with the act of karma, makes for captivating viewing from start-to-finish. Rosa Garcia-Knight delivers a fine performance that deserves high praise – a fine actress to keep an eye on. Cinematography (Caleb MacDonald) is of high quality from the offset – a great effort for a low production value film. Highly recommended.
