Hey, It’s Me Review
Hey, It’s Me is a 2020 short film directed by The Sposatos.
Playing like an abridged long-lost episode of Black Mirror, Hey, It’s Me, is an enthralling dark sci-fi mind trip that comments on the age-old question of what it would be like to talk to your future self.
The first thing to notice when sitting down to this short is the excellent visual effects and art design on display. Production designer Kelsey Walsh with art director Jesse Aiello deserves a special mention for creating smart aesthetics for both the slightly futuristic and distant futuristic worlds. It appears believable while not crossing into an over-the-top style.
To compliment that amazing art direction, we must next turn to the cinematography of Arthur Woo, who does something pretty clever here. What would normally be a temptation to drench the year 2120 in a neon lit style, something akin to Blade Runner he smartly avoids. Instead, Woo opts to create that look for our 2030 vignette, with a younger, more immature version of our main character on display in the short. It makes sense from a character perspective, while also a great subversion of expectations.
Inspecting the acting aspects of the film, the entire cast does a magnificent job. Cedric Cannon in particular as the future Miller commands the screen throughout the entire short. There is a great sense of levity brought on by a character who has lived an entire life in the reflection of one grave mistake. RJ Brown who portrays the younger version does equal numbers here, bringing a sly arrogance yet timid persona to the screen.
Lastly, the music by Jay Sakong deserves a nod, especially for the fantastic ending number that plays during the closing credits. It provides an amazing energy to end the piece on and gives some great Kavinsky vibes.
Overall Hey, It’s Me is a strong short film that has a clear sense of style and story structure. It tells a narrative that is self-contained yet rife for expansion. This short film is a great showcase of a huge gathering of creative talent.
To follow on social media: Houndstooth Studios, Courtney Sposato, and Mark Sposato.
Cheers!
Daniel Hess
Festival Outlook:
Austin Film Festival Official Selection Cinequest Official Selection
Garden State Film Festival (Best Sci-Fi Short) Grimmfest Official Selection
PanicFest Official Selection Fantaspoa Official Selection
Hang Onto Your Shorts Official Selection
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