By Peter Harper
Pit Stop begins with the basic premise of a guard being tasked with the transportation of a prisoner, but it’s obvious something dramatic has occurred for the two to flee, but have run out of gas within remote woodland. While waiting for backup and fuel to arrive the two like or not strike up a conversation on each other’s beliefs and morals.
Regardless of who’s right or wrong, the two have bigger things to worry about as there’s something else with them in the woods, which will ultimately bring the two to work together to survive.
What I loved about Pit Stop is that for a short film of under six minutes it not only packs a lot in, but it makes you crave for wanting more. This felt like a springboard for something bigger, an appetiser.
The two leads of the guard (Hannah) played by Mary Rose Branick and the prisoner Quinn (Emily Sweet) are both superb. They chew a fair bit of dialogue within their short running time and their performances were smooth and natural and both very good chemistry.
The direction by David A. Flores is assured and you could tell he was having a good time with this. It’s beautifully shot and without including any spoilers there’s a lovely twist and superb effect towards the end.
Like I said, this felt like a mere taster of what’s to come. I’ll be shocked if Flores hasn’t got something up his sleeve and where to go next and if or when that comes I’m definitely on board.
Pit Stop is a really cool short film that’s beautifully shot, great performances and a filmmaker with tons of potential and cool, unique ideas.
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