Gina, an Actress, Age 29

I saw this short again recently on some cable channel and I was reminded of having seen it at Sundance. At the time, I couldn't believe it had won Best Short. Sundance often goes for films that 1) explore the plight of the working man, and/or 2) have a surprising plot twist. This film has both. That is the only rationalization I can find.

Skillful filmmakers always make careful choices and seem to disguise the fact that they are working with low budgets and inexperienced actors and crew. Not this film. One is made painfully aware throughout that everyone seems to be winging it. What irritated me most was that I came away with the impression that this was a project in which someone had more money than talent.

So, amateurish acting, bland direction, and poor production values -- I still don't know what Sundance was thinking.