Written and directed by Andrew Huggins, ‘Cabarrus’ is a short drama film that delves into the misfortune of two brothers and their ailing mother. Set predominately in a trailer park in Cabarrus Country, North Carolina, the film explores themes of addiction, poverty, illness and criminality. Russ A. Bryan leads the cast as Dean, with David Garrett as Bobby. Additional cast include Chantey Colet, Mike Payne and Dustin Vanhoose. ‘Cabarrus’ gives an unflinching account of drug dealing, drug misuse and family sacrifice.
The hard-hitting short opens with Dean cutting an isolated figure on a remote wasteland. His depression is temporally relieved by an injection of heroin. In an effort to raise funds for his cancer-stricken mother, Dean confides in his older brother about a plan to loot drugs from a local newcomer. The film concludes with a tragic twist that brings calamity to the entire family. A tough watch that will captivate audiences from the get-go.
Andrew Huggins has created a poignant tale in an effort to highlight social deprivation in the Southern United States. The entire cast deliver commendable performances throughout, particularly Russ A. Bryan. Visually, the film is professionally constructed with high quality cinematography, color-grading and post-production. A gripping tale that doesn’t shy away from showcasing societal hardships and poverty. Highly recommended.
