‘Wish You Were Here’, directed by Big Bubba and penned by Ken Abalos, is a short film that manages to pack an emotional punch, oscillating between dark humor, shocking twists, and moments of profound empathy.
The story centers around Margaret (played by Anne Rosenfeld), an elderly woman trapped in a cocoon of isolation and monotony. As the outside world buzzes with life, Margaret feels increasingly left out and invisible, a feeling that immediately draws the viewer into her world of solitude. The film expertly captures her loneliness, heightened when she eagerly checks her mail, hoping for some connection to the outside world.
But just when you think you’ve got this film figured out, it takes a wild turn. Desperation drives Margaret to the internet, where she discovers a new and unexpected outlet for her frustrations – trolling. Yes, the sweet grandmother transforms into a vitriolic online commenter, spewing politically incorrect and downright nasty remarks on social media. This unlikely twist is where the film truly shines, turning what could have been a predictable story of loneliness into a layered exploration of identity and hidden personas.
Abalos’ script is sharp, witty, and filled with dark comedic undertones that make Margaret’s transformation both shocking and oddly relatable. The film does an excellent job of portraying her newfound excitement and thrill, as she finds a twisted sense of purpose and connection in her online escapades.
Big Bubba’s direction is thoughtful and precise, maintaining a balance between the film’s comedic and disturbing elements. The sound design is particularly noteworthy, using the ambient sounds of the outside world and the ticking of the clock in Margaret’s home to emphasize her isolation. This all changes with the intensity of the sounds when she enters the trolling world, adding to the film’s suspense and dark humor.
Harvir Gill’s cinematography complements the narrative perfectly, from the wide shots that emphasize Margaret’s loneliness to the intense close-ups that capture the exhilaration on her face as she trolls. Each frame is thoughtfully crafted to draw the audience deeper into Margaret’s peculiar world.
‘Wish You Were Here’ is an entertaining, twisty, and thought-provoking film that delves into the idea that we never really know who the trolls behind the screen are – it could even be someone as unsuspecting as your own grandmother. With its blend of dark comedy and touching moments, this film is a must-watch, earning a well-deserved five stars.
