‘Jamie’ opens on the title character, a homeless young woman with what little possession and joy she has left – her guitar. This 9-minute film, written and directed by Aayushman Pandey, takes a peek into the life of Jamie (Marisa Darling), who appears to be neglected and isolated by society – for a reason unknown. Whilst washing in a public restroom, she spots a young man (Alexander Matos) giving sexual favours for his own survival. Later, her little life crashes further when he steels her guitar.
The film consists of very little dialogue but this doesn’t convey the narrative any less. The emotive soundtrack combined with high-quality cinematography sets the tone and feel alone. Jamie, played outstandingly by Marisa Darling, captivates the audience into her insufferable world. In the final scenes she is reunited with her guitar and she sets out to stop the young man spiralling into an even darker existence. A truly simple story of compassion in a dark and lonely world on the streets.
As a viewer we are left wanting to know more, perhaps to explore their journey together to get off the streets. Leaving an audience wanting more can work in two ways, an unfulfilled conclusion or a desired interest in the characters – for ‘Jamie’ the latter would be an appropriate analysis.
