Done with Mirrorz Review
Done with Mirrorz is a 2021 short film directed by Axel Arzola, with writing by Jared Kurt.
Dealing with self-confidence and self-worth issues affects far too many, not just in America but around the world. Done with Mirrorz takes an interesting angle with this concept that leaves off on a somewhat interesting yet confusing note.
On a surface level, the initial reaction was to not have much empathy for our lead character as portrayed by Jared Kurt. It seemed hard to see where any kind of issues might arise from but upon closer inspection of course one has to remember that mental health issues know not race, gender, religion, etc.
Looking at the film from a technical level, it is no straightforward task to film around mirrors and reflections. Most filmmaker simply avoid scenes with mirrors as much as possible. Yet that is where this short leans into the most. It works well most times, but there were two instances where some things didn’t translate as smoothly.
The first being in the workout scene. Once the man confronts his reflection, there is a bit of an obvious line between the shots to mask using a separate reflection. The other one being a what appears to be mismatched eyeline back at the room where the two discuss wardrobe choices.
The shining moment of the film though comes in the climatic mirror battle between the man and his reflection. It is a thrilling fight with a great musical selection, and some fun neon drenched colorful lighting. The jump from outside to inside the mirror had a good execution too. An easy highlight of the piece by far.
The ending while making sense in that defeating one’s demons is never a simple task still left things off in a confusing way. Perhaps it was the fact that the shot still reflected the colorful lighting from the battle scene, or that the reflection was unscathed. It was just something that rang a little hollow to close it all out.
However, Done with Mirrorz is an interesting look into self-worth, especially in the realm of masculine expectations in the world. It raises some interesting questions and the directing by Arzola delivers genuine moments throughout. A solid showcase.
To follow on social media: Jared Kurt and Axel Arzola
Cheers!
Daniel Hess
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