The Fifth of November

The fifth of November is a compelling short film about the emotional scars gun violence leaves behind on its survivors. Through the eyes of Jane, played with a stoic severity by writer and producer Qurrat Ann Kadwani, we flash through timelines before and after the tragedy to see who Jane was and who she has become. The stark, distant feel of the cinematography adds to the eerie feeling of loss that drives the film. Two years after her fiance is killed in a mass shooting, Jane decides to celebrate her birthday in a new, unconventional way. The director Javier Augusto Nunez masterfully paints Jane's descent into madness through the use of darkness and mirrors, showcasing the thin line between the present and the past, victim and villain. Written by Amber Lee-Adadevoh Medium.com Medium Film Ready

I recently had a chance to see this film at a film festival. I don't want to give anything away as far as the plot is concerned, so all I will say is that, in a short time, it packs quite a punch with its socio-political message. It's also bound to stir up a good deal of controversy given the political climate in 2019, and for me, that's a good thing! I've always felt that art, especially film, is meant to provoke, and this film definitely does that. The acting is superb, especially when it comes to the lead actress. In fact, she won an award for best actress at very festival where I saw the film.

If you have a chance to catch this one at a film festival, or whenever it is available on-line, you should definitely do so.

This film makes its point in a stylish and well produced fashion. Starting with the performance of Qurrat Ann Kadwani (who is a talent for sure), the film builds momentum as we watch her slowly transform. So well directed that we almost don't notice techniques, but are rather wrapped up in her character. Solid edit with great color, and sound, what we have is a cohesive element (don't think we've used that word yet to describe a film), that support the overall plot development. Good mix of shots and angles that keep the story moving along. Ultimately this is original and new, and that's what we like to see. Could be the basis for a series. Would like to see more. -Brian McLane, Director Transparent Film Festival