Torture is the most significant film offering from its creator, Phillip Debs.
The second in a series of three (prequel "Capture" and sequel "Escape" (both working titles) ), it presents us with the main character seated and bound, being given a beating and interrogated. Images flash from standard view into negative, placing the viewer into a state of empathy for the disorientation and blurred vision one must experience given the same treament.
The film opens with the menacing glare of the victim's torturer, a bare chested, "fists for hire" type who appears to enjoy his line of work. The victim, a seemingly ordinary working class man, seems unaware of the reason for his beating, but uses reserves of energy to try and keep his wits about him. This beating is interspersed with countless slaps in the face by a sharp looking "boss", the crooked cop who also gets in on the action.
On the surface, this all seems like a lead up to what potentially could become a snuff film, however, the real message behind the violence runs far deeper than that.
I'm certain many people with a "diasbility" can relate to the feeling of struggling to find acceptance. Feeling like they hold no power or influence in the world they inhabit. Feeling tortured by the lack of accessibility to the world the rest of us more often than not take for granted. Feeling bound, beaten and bruised by governments and businesses alike that may pay a nominal lip service without providing any real support, or infact, keep these minority groups held back and held down.
Amazing how much can be said in 2 minutes without a word being spoken. On my first viewing of this short, I was deeply moved by the message. Mr Debs has delivered a powerful performance, creative editing, and a winning plot. I look forward to viewing both the prequel and sequel.
To view this, and more short films from Phillip Debs ProVisual, head to his channel on youtube : http://www.youtube.com/user/phillipdebs, or visit his website : www.pdprovisual.com.au
Up next ? A discussion into all things burlesque...let me entertain you !
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