“Sit back and enjoy a great piece of storytelling and filmmaking”

On the phone with a rich man whose son he has kidnapped, with whom he hasn't had contact for fifteen years, the kidnapper gives him the chance to save his son's life and rebuild their relationship.

Produced on a microbudget, this short thriller takes a simple story and adds plenty of suspense and intrigue, delivered by a powerful performance from lead actor Cristian Moriconi.

Even though the films budget was small, it doesn’t feel it. Director of photography Audrey Biche creates a moody and dramatic look to each shot with a subtle and fitting colour grade which all ties in with the genre.

Keeping the locations centred around a vehicle and in big open spaces was a perfect choice, as it helps the audience focus on the story and performance whilst feeling the isolation and tension of the main character. The backdrop of city lights also helps to give the film a cinematic quality.

Cristian Moriconi takes on the role with authority and deep sadness, creating a tortured character that you can’t take your eyes off. Moriconi is magnetic on screen and a delight to watch.

Director and writer Riccardo Romano has created a lasting short film that lets the audience fill in the blanks. By keeping all dialogue with just Moriconi, it creates a feeling that we’re watching in on the situation. This perfectly creates the sense of tension and intrigue as we’re left out of the picture until the end.

All in all, this is a great example of how to make a short thriller on a budget without making the audience aware of it, instead you can sit back and enjoy a great piece of storytelling and filmmaking.

— APEX Film Awards