Directed by Sam Rees, from a screenplay by the late scriptwriter Othniel Smith, ‘Nerd’ is a short drama film that takes an intimate look at one man’s fall from grace. Christopher Pegler-Lambert stars as Gordon (the sole character) – a disgraced film producer who reflects about his rise in the movie industry to career calamity by his sexual misconduct and impropriety. The character echoes the dishonor of Harvey Weinstein and the subsequent Me Too Movement. The drama explores themes of mental health, self-pity and abuse of power.
The 41-minute monologue, constructed predominately in real time and appearing as two-continuous shots, opens with Gordon demonstrating his movie-nerd personality. The film breaks-the-fourth wall throughout, with the character speaking directly to the camera for the viewing audience. Set entirely in an apartment, the drama delves into the imbalance of power and acceptance of sexual advances in an industry rife with scandal. ‘Nerd’ is a hard-hitting, albeit complex drama that will evoke viewer empathy and equally resentment to the protagonist.
Othniel Smith has poignantly captured both the vulnerability and willingness of masculine power in the workplace. Sam Rees (Director) has created a riveting watch, alluring viewers from the get-go. High praise to Christopher Pegler-Lambert – a second-to-none performance that deserves high acclaim. Pegler-Lambert’s emotional range delivers enthralling viewing from start-to-finish. The use of long-continuous shots, with a transition break at 28-mins, rewards viewers with a sense of intimacy and melancholy that wouldn’t be achievable without. A chilling drama not to be overlooked. Highly recommended.
