User reviews

Greetings again from the darkness. We wouldn't expect a 19 minute crime drama to have sufficient time to create the tension needed for impact. Writer-director Ben Reid and his co-writer Owen Gower serve up a short film that packs a punch, a twist, and also some commentary on our attitudes towards the disabled.

The film opens with a police raid on some type of facility. An orderly (Lawrence Spellman) refuses to answer the door since he's been drinking at the desk. Soon we learn that a body has been found, and the detective on the case (Alice Lowe, SOMETIMES ALWAYS NEVER) is watching the security camera footage. We also learn that it's a facility for those with Down Syndrome, and that orderly is an ex-con whose younger brother (Tommy Jessup) is a patient.

It's clear the older brother is protective of the younger one, especially when he has to intervene during spats with the supervisor (Richard Glover). Most of what we see is in flashback format, but we are never sure just how accurate the recollections are. Who are we, and the police, to believe? What assumptions do we make about those with Down Syndrome? What about those with a criminal record? THE PEANUT BUTTER FALCON is another recent movie that featured a character with Down Syndrome, and Tommy Jessup does work here. The film is dedicated to Mr. Reid's brother who has Down Syndrome, and it's a thought-provoking experience with dark lighting and subject matter to match.

So pleased that a person with challenges has been given a pivotal role. As a lover of short stories I really appreciate the tightness of this short film.

A brilliantly directed and powerful film, lead by a great leading actor in Tommy Jessop. Good to see a character and actor with down sydrome in a film like this. Really hope this gets made into full length film.

I really love this film, Ben Reid and Owen Gower have created thrilling script that takes you in unexpected directions. A great watch with excellent dialogue and lots of surprises.

What a refreshing change to see learning disabled actors in key roles in Ben Reid's short film Innocence. Tommy Jessop is convincing in the lead and takes on this challenging role with great aplomb. Ben Reid has bucked the trend by writing this complex short and casting it with true diversity! I cannot wait to see the feature film

Very much enjoyed this short. Great plot, strong acting and well directed. My pick for an Oscar this year.

A thought provoking film , must watch. Tommy Jessop is great.

Gripping despite being such a short film. A bit dark and hate to think this actually happens :( The lead guy is a great actor - intense!

Well crafted in each aspect, proposing provocative lines and fair atmosphere, reminding Syndrome Down cases and using it in wise manner, it is just a clever film for each scene. A film about brotherhood, love, justice/revenge and powerful twist. Short, just admirable