The Passerby

What a sensitively portrayed and non sensationalised piece of drama, highlighting DA towards men. Very little is known about it but the problem is much bigger than you think. Congratulations to Writer/Director Benjamin Timothy Gobey, and to the super cast who brought this story to life. Mollie Mullins certainly created a sense of unease from the outset and we couldn't help but feel that Josh ( played by Luke McArthur), was in for a tough ride.

It was filmed in Cheltenham and despite being a low budget project, it packs a punch in an understated way. There are many organisations that exist to help those men who find themselves trapped in an abusive relationship, such as the great work carried out by the Mankind Initiative. We need more stories like these to throw light on a lesser known problem.

"The Passerby" sensitively explores a subject that is often overlooked and widens audience perception on domestic abuse. The UK National Statistics last posted figures indicate one in three victims of domestic abuse are actually male. A significant portion of this is partner abuse. Writer/Director Benjamin Timothy Gobey rightly chooses to focus on the subject and character over any area of exploitation which in many ways is more intriguing and involving for the audience. Great performances from Luke McArthur and Alec Hopkins rightly shows that men can be vulnerable and victimised - a matter that is frequently ignored - especially at a time when male suicide rates are on the rise. Gobey draws convincing performances from his cast not least from Molly Mullins as Isabel who has great range conveying the chilling aspects of her character as well the layers that sit behind her troubled soul. A very worthwhile and thought provoking watch.

A short film raises the subject of a domestic abuse towards men. Very moving story told in a deep and intelligent way. Every word and gesture there has a meaning. There is only the main essence, no unnecessary details or prolonged statements. I liked an impression of honesty and realism which a viewer can feel in every single scene. It is important message for everyone and especially for those who are affected by any kind of violence or abuse. Domestic abuse towards men is not a popular subject of movies but it does not mean this problem does not exist. I think it is important to start see it and talk about it.

The Passerby by new young writer/ director Benjamin Timothy Gobey offers a powerful and sensitive look at domestic abuse against men. It highlights a subject that is very seldom looked at in drama, and illustrates how easily DA in the form of partner abuse might be taking place in everyday situations without us realising. Impressive performances from Luke McArthur, Molly Mullins and Alec Hopkins bring the story of Josh's struggle at the hands of his girlfriend Isabel to life. As he is about to take his life, in a tense scene, the passerby of the title, Nick manages to talk him down. This is a perfectly balanced short film which handles a difficult subject well. Rather than glossing things over, the director tells it like it is. Make a note of Benjamin Timothy Gobey's name. I think you're going to see a lot more from this talented young filmmaker in years to come.

Chris Green.