Timur Gatov’s short drama sheds light on the fragile state of one woman’s mental health and her contemplation of taking her own life. Natalia Giro, who co-wrote the film and stars as the central character, delivers a brilliant and poignant performance that captures the depth of her character’s struggles.
The narrative revolves around Giro’s character recording her suicide act, candidly sharing her woes and inner turmoil. However, a seemingly simple yet life-changing event introduces a burst of color into her life, altering her perspective in a way that brings a sliver of hope. This journey is powerfully conveyed, leaving viewers with a profound reminder of the reasons why people may contemplate suicide – as a desperate attempt to end their pain and suffering.
The decision to partially shoot the film in black and white is a clever choice that enhances the somber tone and reflects the bleakness of the protagonist’s perspective. Martin Tengeler and Christian Kühn’s cinematography work cohesively to capture the emotional depth of each scene, effectively immersing viewers in the character’s state of mind.
With the film primarily in the Italian language (with English subtitles), Giro’s portrayal transcends linguistic barriers and resonates with authenticity. Her performance masterfully captures the delicate nuances and complexities of her character’s mental fragility.
Overall, Timur Gatov’s short drama serves as a profound exploration of mental health and the desperate search for a glimmer of hope in the darkest moments of human existence. Giro’s brilliant performance, combined with the film’s visually striking cinematography, reminds audiences of the deep suffering that can lead individuals to contemplate such drastic measures.
