Terminal (2009) - By Josh Samford

Film Reviews: Terminal (2009) - By Josh Samford
Posted on Wednesday, April 01, 2009 @ 20:37:40 Mountain Daylight Time by Duane

I think generally, the majority of us geeks who take to the keyboard are true romantics at heart. I think anyone who "creates" in any manner kind of has to be, otherwise write as much as we may want it all seems kind of futile if that unconditional love does not exist. So I am not one to shy away from romantic films, although as a guy I'm also pretty choosy when it comes to my entertainment. You won't find me fawning over What Happens in Vegas simply because there's a love story to be had. So when Terminal crossed my desk, I knew it would either be a hit or miss type occasion, as most romantic comedies tend to be. I am here to say however that this short film leaps ahead of the competition and does so in spectacular fashion. Focusing not on sitcom-esque conventional laughs or saccharine wonderment - it's actually a very sincere and character driven short. The humor is all character inspired and even a bit absurdest at times, as our female lead speaks completely out of turn and without a care in the world about what taboo she may be breaking. She's a quirky character that starts off grinding your nerves but ultimately becomes lovable and endearing through her obvious honesty. Terminal too is as endearing through it's true-to-life flow, which is what makes it so instantly appealing.

Terminal focuses on the inner happenings of a Airport terminal bar. Malcolm is a very serious gentleman, who simply wants to sit alone at his table and read his newspaper. Jordan however is an outspoken and excitable patron who simply can't resist the lure of Malcolm's intense demeanor. She starts off their conversation by pointing out her disapproval of Michael Landing's constant supply of tears on every episode of Little House on the Prairie. Malcolm could care less and tries to brush her away, but Jordan is persistent and refuses to let Malcolm's attention drift away. Through her blunt honesty and outgoing demeanor she manages to bring Malcolm out of his shell, and once the two begin their conversation they begin to discover that they have a lot more in common than first appearances would lead you to believe. Now Malcolm must decide which path he will take in life, will he continue his life of comfortable predictability with someone he doesn't really love, or attempt a life a little less usual.

Director Fernando Beltran Y Puga delivers an intriguing short that ranks with the best I have seen this year. It is a technically proficient film full of beautiful cinematography and a lush set. Although I'm not sure if the set was built or was simply an actual airport bar, the beautiful red colored walls match the flower motif of the film and remind me a great deal of Italian cinema of the seventies, with their over the top and exotic use of red and blue. It is most certainly a beautiful looking film but where it really comes to life is through the performances and the script. The character of Jordan is as unique as they come and could very well hold a feature film together solely on her own merits - but is really given the opportunity to shine in the short timespan we are given with her here. Leah Loftin who plays the character gives her a slight air of innocence that really goes a long way into making her come off as a sincere soul. On paper it's easy to imagine the character being portrayed in a "slutty" manner due to her frank discussing of sex with outright strangers, but as she is played by Loftin you're left with the impression that this girl just doesn't know any other way to be herself. Andrew English as Malcolm is another solid choice and brings about life in his character, who at first seems to be nothing more than a jerk but delivers a monologue with such intensity that all is forgiven within an instance. Both parts are played with conviction and belief in their character, although both actors appear to be in their crafting stages, they bring life to this project that so heavily relies on their performances.

Writer Rock Shaink Jr. deserves some credit as well for his wonderful script which makes the foundation the film rests upon. The film is a simple one that explores the conundrum we call 'love' while also fully fleshing out two very interesting characters. Last but not least, I should probably mention the music which I personally loved. Especially the opening pop-rock tune that the film begins with, from a band called Middle Distance Runner, as both are of a certain higher quality of creation you immediately know what to expect from this one. Overall I have to say Terminal is a great short that I found myself laughing along with, and really appreciate. I hope more of you will have the opportunity to check it out. You can read more about this project and others by visiting the official page here or visiting the official myspace page here. Check it out as soon as you can.