Mikes Film Talk

Helmed by first time director Emerson Adams (Sisyphus Unbound) Rewriting Mallory (written by Malcolm Vanderwoude) is a low key approach to grief with an added dose of goosebumps. Starring first timer Jonathan Erwin as Joshua and Tammy Sanow as Mallory the film resonates with anyone who is suffering the loss of a loved one.

The film starts with a low key session with Joshua and his counsellor, played by Lucy Borchers, discussing his reluctance to face facts. As his sessions ends, she offers an almost off-hand suggestion. Perhaps he could write story. One that details his experience with the loss. It is interesting to note that during the session, the good doctor appears almost intimidating. Once the two have finished she appears more empathetic.

Cue Joshua heading to his local cafe and ordering a coffee. He starts to write and we meet Mallory. She appears, sporadically, to be starting the worst day ever in her existence. In short order, she loses everything. These events are mostly low key in their delivery and do not imply any connection to Joshua.

Mallory then heads to the local cafe. For pancakes.

Adams has given us a look into a world where writing matters. It may be all about handling one’s grief or it could be a goosebump inducing reality .

This theme is not uncharted ground. Stranger Than Fiction (2006) eases into a world where one’s life is dictated by an unknown author. Unlike Rewriting Mallory the Emma Thompson/Will Ferrell movie offered a motiveless plot where a best selling writer’s work affected a total stranger. A different ending was also in evidence.

The cast perform well. Erwin does a great job with the internalizing Josua. Sanow also brings to life the hapless Mallory in an admirable fashion. Timothy J Cox (Who never disappoints.) is perfect as the annoyed Mr. Holcomb. In fact, the entire ensemble of extras and walk-ons help to sell the story brilliantly. Once again it is nice to see a large turnout of actors for a short film.

Side note: Shout out to Zach Holt as the server. *No small parts.*

The run-time of Rewriting Mallory is just over 21 minutes. Not once does it fail It to catch the attention of the viewer. Despite the low key start it does indeed induce goosebumps at the end. Well written, expertly directed and photographed with aplomb, this short Independent film is worth a look.

This is a full 5 star effort. *It is worth an extra star just for that goosebump ending.*