In the intriguing world of experimental cinema, Camila Garcia Dominguez’s ‘If It Was Played’ emerges as a daring dive into the transcendent power of music. With a minimalist approach to character dialogue, the film invites viewers on a journey with music and dance at the forefront.
Opening in the unassuming setting of a fast-food café, the film introduces two strangers whose paths converge over a cryptic note left on a napkin. This simple gesture sets the stage for a narrative that unfolds not through words, but through the emotive strains of music.
As the story transitions to Part II, a new character is introduced, drawn into the transformative embrace of sound within the confines of a record player store. Here, the boundary between reality and reverie blurs as the protagonist succumbs to the hypnotic rhythms and melodies, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and connection.
Throughout its 6-minute runtime, ‘If It Was Played’ eschews traditional dialogue in favor of a sensory experience driven by the harmonious interplay of music and movement. While the film’s low-budget production may betray its limitations, particularly in sound design and cinematography, its thematic resonance and vibrant performances shine through.
Despite its technical constraints, the short ultimately succeeds in its quest to illuminate the universal language of music and its profound capacity to uplift and inspire. Through mesmerizing choreography and music, the film underscores how art can transcend barriers and resonate with the soul.
