Spoiled Milk Review

Spoiled Milk is a 2020 short film written and directed by Susanna Dodds.

What a cute and poignant short film this is. Extremely topical with clever writing and strong acting. Spoiled Milk is a wonderful showcase of the talent that is clear in writer/director Susanna Dodds.

Opening with a great, energetic tracking shot. The film instantly grabs you and moves at a perfect pacing that is only shown up by a well written story. Every now and again a short film comes along that really encapsulates a generational pulse and I must say that this comes close to that for me.

It might be my jaded bias of many a failed relationship from various dating apps over the years or my inevitable solo trips to cinemas (pre-pandemic anyway), but I saw a reflection of myself in Sadie as portrayed excellently by Maddieson Searle. She embodied the nervous youthful energy that comes with a person that as the film and world would label “a late bloomer.” As an extension the entire supporting cast brings their A-game as well.

A standout moment for me was when Sadie went to get milk, having an accidental hand touch with the cashier Tom, only to daydream of an entire life together. Sure, it is something we have seen done in films before, but it further illustrates the pressure that society can put on us to have a relationship with someone, and the yearning that blossoms as a result.

Of course, the inevitable conclusion here is a story about finding comfort in yourself, but the way that it wraps things up, while not being a subversion, still finds a clever way to end the piece smartly.

There were only two small technical pieces I noticed during my viewing that I wish to mention. One being back at the opening shot, while it is well composed, it feels almost a beat too quick (a minor gripe by all means). The other point is the sound was kind of tinny in some spots, but again this is nothing bad, just a hair noticeable, especially with headphones in.

At the end of the day though Spoiled Milk is a cute, quirky, fun, and poignant short film brilliantly made by Susanna Dodds and her entire team. The visuals were great with a quick mention being the work of cinematographer Felix Ferguson who gave the film an instant cinematic quality. Also, the unsung heroes of far too many reviews set design by Rashmi Mohotti and costume design by Aislin Adams-Ward brought life to every location/character. Bravo to everyone and if you have a chance to watch the short, please do, I am sure you will find something to love or relate to in it.

To follow on social media: Production Instagram and Film Instagram.

Watch the official trailer below!

Cheers!

Daniel Hess

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