“Ephemeral,” directed by Hannah Notsch

San Diego Short Film Festival

Genre: Drama

Total Run Time 14:08

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Two friends – Erin (Janessa Acuña) and Madison (Sterling Amara) – were Inseparable as children. The
two have steadily grown apart into adults who recognize the shadow of their former selves but struggle
with who they have each become. They learn to accept the uncomfortable truth that things can never
go back to the way they once were.

“Uncomfortable” is both a detached notion and an emotional hook that repeats throughout the film.
You recognize how situationally uncomfortable the leads frequently are, and you feel every
uncomfortable silence and insult as they test the boundaries of their present-day friendship.

The impetus for their reunion – an engagement party filled with mutual friends – is an epiphany engine.
The engaged couple announce that they have already eloped, making the impending threat of profound
change a fait accompli instead. Small talk inadvertently leads to large talk. Merriment gives way to tears.

That’s a lot to ask for a project that comes in at under 15 minutes, and there’s a lot that Notsch and her
crew get absolutely right. Everything in front of the camera -- the costumes, make up, hair, sets – are
frequently great. The performances are appropriately understated, with supporting characters getting
things to do without (mostly) overstaying their welcome and Amara and Acuña making the most of the
dialogue while shining in the quiet parts. (Amara especially flows effortlessly between emoting via
words and body language.)

 

As for the camera itself, the climax takes place overlooking a city street at
dusk in a shot that is absolutely next-level – kudos to Notsch and DOP Ace Davis for finding that location
at that exact time of day with that focus.

The bookends involving an Elton John song feel a little forced, but that is a minor quibble for a film with
a genuine emotional core. As with its title, “Ephemeral” wears even its overly deliberate elements pretty
well.