Protect Me from What I Want

seductive, touching, fresh. real impressive. few images and words and a large circle of emotions. one of that short films who precise rules. and lives as skin of atmosphere. like in many other short movies, important is silence. in this case, it is result of clash between different cultures, image of sin and desire, fear and lust. extraordinary - the end. essential - science to be more than a gay film, its universal message. and, the inspired option for two good actors who does convincing roles as fruits of nuances. it is difficult comment it. because, as each short movie, it is a kind of haiku. the flavor is powerful or fiction for every viewer. but the scent remains. tender, fresh, special.

I have to say this was very good, Elliot Tittensor shows a different side to his acting, and shows he has more talent than just playing Carl in Shameless and isn't afraid to do more serious stuff.

Naveed Choudhry was also very good, he portrays a young Asian who goes with another boy for the first time, you can feel his tension, at first and then he starts to let go a bit then feels guilty then it ends on a bit of a high.

For a 14 minute film it was very good, well shot, well acted, nice directing from Dominic Leclerc.

It came as part of a series of shorts on a film called 'Boys On Film 4' and this one is easily the best one out of the nine shorts.

because it reflects, in inspired manner, emotions, not exactly a story. because it gives authenticity of a first experience and to a cultural clash. because the performances are real great. and the script - an inspired one. it is strange to write about it because it is a film about realities out of words. a kind of embroidery of nuances, suggestions and admirable images. a film about honesty. to yourself. about fear and the delicate manner to stop it. about joy and sensitivity. about basic small things. and nothing more.

The only thing lacking in this short is an appropriate soundtrack. The music behind the scenes is typical. This film deserves better.

Both Elliot Tittensor (as Daz) and Naveed Choudhry (as Saleem) do an outstanding job of developing their characters' struggles in the short time they have. Daz is trying to live a double life, keeping his sexuality and profession hidden while Saleem is torn between culture and his desire. The argument can be made that Saleem could just as rightfully been Jose, Artyom, Huang, or Billy. Using Saleem quickly incorporates western assumptions about Indian culture: strong family ties, a loving and forgiving attitude, and a strong abhorrence of homosexuality. That works well for a short film. Selecting handsome actors of a similar age helps endure them and their kinship the to the audience. That works well here also. You want these two to be together.

Tittensor does a beautiful job in the short time he has to show tenderness and that he does not want to rush or pressure Saleem. It is quickly obvious that he sees something in Saleem that he wants badly; a lover, not a client. And this is the man who may offer him that. Choudhry is obviously scared, but wants desperately to relax inside this coveted but unfamiliar life that he has only dreamed of. A life he is not sure he should even imagine, much less enter into.

The ending is superb. Tittendor's timing is perfect while repeating one spoken word. Choudhry's facial expressions during the closing shots tell a story that could fill a reel of film.

Kudos to Dominic Leclerc. He created a masterpiece. Please sir, can I have some more sir?

"Protect Me from What I Want" is a compelling short film that delves into the intricate dynamics of identity, desire, and societal pressure. The two lead actors deliver remarkable performances, portraying their characters' internal conflicts with authenticity and sensitivity. The film's direction is adept, capturing the right tone to reflect the often unspoken shame and confusion experienced by many gay men during their initial intimate encounters.

The screenplay is poignant and well-crafted, providing a window into the challenges faced by individuals navigating their sexuality in environments that may not be accepting. The film's subtle yet powerful conclusion leaves a lasting impression, encouraging viewers to reflect on the courage it takes to embrace one's true self.

Overall, "Protect Me from What I Want" is a beautifully executed short film that succeeds in conveying its message with grace and emotional depth. It is a testament to the talents of its cast and crew, and an important piece of cinema that highlights the universal struggle for acceptance and love.

@etittensor #elliotttittensor.