From the opening shots to Prison Guard Johnson's long walk through the inmate blocks to a death row cell, director Seth Fuller pulls you in cinematically. The prison itself is an unforgettable character; it's concrete walls and iron bars remain hostile and inhospitable.
Beyond the dominating presence of the prison itself, the strongest elements of this indelible short are the acting and the surprise twist ending. As a writer myself, I was surprised not to see the twist coming, but I must refrain from delivering any spoilers. I will simply state that the twist is both uncomfortable and satisfying.
The performances from the two leads (Andres Michael as death row inmate Randle Kohler and Alex Knight as Johnson) are subtle, understated, and emotionally constrained. Andres's Southern drawl is intoxicating and Johnson's calm demeanor is unnerving.
If there is a weakness, it is in the pacing of the narrative. Overall, however, it's a solid story with an unexpected twist, complimented by excellent performances.
