Matthew Pelton’s three-part anthology film pulls viewers into the depths of human connection, wrapped around the central motif of water. In the opening segment, viewers dive into the reunion of Grace and Liam, portrayed by Isabela Imamura and Connor Strycharz respectively. Through their encounter on the tranquil shore of a lake, Pelton explores the complexities of estrangement and the enduring impact of life’s minor missteps on close relationships, crafting a compelling coming-of-age narrative that resonates on multiple levels.
The second installment takes a haunting turn as we are introduced to Richard, portrayed with intensity by Adam Chaarawi. Plagued by sinister forces both internal and external, Richard grapples with profound loss and a palpable sense of self-estrangement, rendering his journey a chilling exploration of psychological turmoil and existential dread. Pelton’s writing imbues this segment with an eerie atmosphere, inviting audiences to confront the darkest corners of the human psyche.
In the third and final tale, Jonathan Price captivates as Christopher, a man who has forsaken societal norms to embrace the untamed wilderness for five solitary years. Against the backdrop of his poignant “goodbye” message, Pelton orchestrates a gripping portrayal of reintegration into civilization, underscored by the tumultuous forces of nature and the relentless pace of modern life.
Despite its limited budget, Pelton’s film showcases respectable cinematography by Savannah Faith Jackson and Fallon Heelen. Weaving the thematic exploration of reconnection into every narrative strand, this audacious anthology proves to be a captivating journey. With compelling performances and intricately interwoven tales, ‘A Triptych About Water’ emerges as an experimental short worthy of exploration.
