In Transit

It is said that if a film leaves you with a long-lasting impression far after you have left the theater, then the artists have succeeded in their task of making a quality movie. "In Transit" (starring Liliana Arriaga and Suniil Sadarangani; directed by Telly Award winner Stev Elam) is one such film that succeeds. Occurring at a Los Angeles bus stop, "In Transit" presents the viewer with gorgeous cinematography (Justin Chefe). Indeed, each scene is rich in color and emotion as we witness two strangers from different lands come to know each other in a profound way during their few moments of interaction. The acting by Arriaga and Sadarangani is so convincing that the viewer is lured deep into the souls of their two characters in such a way that he feels that he has watched a much longer movie even though "In Transit" lasts a mere 7.5 minutes. Already making waves in the international press, "In Transit" is ready to be converted into a full-length feature film, which is exciting given the already powerful production. The directing is excellent, camera shots well taken. The musical score, composed by Gunnard Doboze of the Oscar winning documentary "Saving Face", is superb. This beautiful little masterpiece, which is now nominated for 5 Angelino Film Festival Awards and is touring the nation at various independent festivals, leaves us moved in a way that most shorts in the entertainment industry do not. Indeed, "In Transit" is the best short film of the year.

This short film of 7 minutes keeps you thinking long after you have finished watching it. Two strangers sitting waiting for the bus, get into a conversation, slowly and gradually reveals each ones vulnerability, that in real life rarely happens. But this story is based on a true event, which makes it all the more effective. The final few moments of the film, is very beautiful and uplifting but also painful. Liliana Arriaga's 'Maria' gave me a huge sadness of being alone. Wonderful, deep and resonating performance by Arriaga. On the other hand, Suniil Sadarangani's 'Kunal' is a stranger to 'Maria' but feels compassion for her and in the 7 minutes Sadarangani very convincingly goes from guarded to genuine compassion and gives a flawless performance. A fantastic short film! -Henrietta Kocsis

At first glance you might not realize that this short film has many layers. There is that of communion, jovial curiosity, & human value.

Look at Maria, the lady that arrives at the bus stop. She appears to be homeless & subsequently little to no education. However, Maria seeks to interact, to involve & be involved. The gentleman (Kunal), with his grocery bag, is hesitant to engage. Yet, Maria makes it clear that she doesn't want anything from him. And that's where the layers start stacking up.

On one end you have a reserved/soft-spoken individual looking to get home without interruption. And on the other you have a loud, opinionated woman prying her way into Kunal's solemnity. It isn't all fun & games, as Maria eventually breaks down & exposes her deepest concerns. Therein lies the heart of the story, as Kunal so eloquently says, "Sometimes loneliness makes people go crazy." Is this woman crazy, or is she just seeking for a temporary place of belonging.

Based on a true story, it left me thinking - what would I do if I were in that situation? And you will find yourself asking that same question.