Maya Review

Maya is a 2021 short film written and directed by Jacquile Kambo.

While it starts off with a very solid premise, Maya brings about more questions than answers in a somewhat overly convoluted story.

The look and feel of the short film create a strong aesthetic throughout with the cinematography by Cuyler Frink of particular note. This is a well-polished piece that carries a high level of production value throughout. The visuals are crisp and clean, with some superb camera movement as well.

The one central aspect that takes away from everything falls solely on the story, unfortunately. It feels a little unnecessarily stuffed with pieces that drift in too many directions, with something that ultimately doesn’t connect them all together.

What is the most interesting piece of the short is how it explores the dynamic of a father and daughter relationship. In the most focused aspect of the plot, this interplay of trying to emerge from the shadow of a successful father in the same field is nice. How it brings this to a conclusion though feels a little strange.

Another two places to observe here would be in the departments of sound and acting. Both are serviceable. The sound mixing is solid, with a touch of moments where things drop out in dialogue exchanges rather quickly. The acting has some genuine moments, the standout here being Maya’s father.

The score by Mike WT Allen is very strong, using a solid undertone, never becoming too overbearing. It delivers just the right amount of punch, especially in the film’s climax.

Overall, Maya presents a strong visual style focusing clearly on great production value. As stated, it is really just the story that ends up getting in the way a little too much throughout.

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Trailer coming soon.

Cheers!

Daniel Hess

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