Written and directed by Diamond Darryl, ‘Under Pressure’ is a short Australian drama film that explores the perils of peer pressure and adverse influence. Set in suburban Logan, Queensland, the short delves into teenage drug use and how it can elicit further criminality. The low-budget production stars Cyrus Cook as obedient Madison, Cooper Harlum as his close friend Caleb, and Kameron Hood as Josh – an outlandish crook. The film acts as a salient reminder of the precariousness of illegal drugs, and to be resolute with your defiance.
The 10-minute drama opens with Madison and Caleb innocently unwinding with a beer at Caleb’s place. As Josh arrives, his forthrightness pressures Madison into taking crack cocaine – which leads to startling calamity with a life changing outcome.
In spite of the film’s low-budget, Diamond Darryl has crafted a sufficient short film with quality cinematography and sound. The narrative is well constructed, with compelling characterization and structure. The concluding twist will certainly enthral the audience. The young cast deliver upstanding portrayals throughout – with a standout performance by Kameron Hood. Dialect may be a tad perplexing for an international audience, but it gives the film a distinguishable Australian quality that deserves acclaim. Highly recommended viewing.
