In writer/director Addison Chapman's Please Respond, two detectives begin investigating a series of teen suicides that unravel into a chilling discovery.

Early in its indie fest run, Please Respond is a thoughtful, contemplative motion picture that practically defines what it means to make a passion film. Developed with family and friends on a mere $8,000 budget, Please Respond is a black-and-white mystery that capitalizes on the use of natural light and shadow impact. With a small ensemble, Chapman emphasizes storytelling here and creates an intriguing narrative throughout the 89-minute film. 

Original music by Paranoia Critical helps create an intense atmosphere. Despite the challenges of working on a limited budget, Chapman's own lensing for the film amplifies the film's growing sense of mystery. 

Chandler Balli and Keith Kinsey are both compelling throughout the film in creating characters we want to follow despite the inherent production challenges associated with low-budget filmmaking. Please Respond most definitely does have those inherent production challenges. The sound mix can be quite hit-and-miss and Chapman's lensing can, at times, be difficult to follow as many of the film's scenes occur at night. Other times, however, it's clear that Chapman knows his way around a camera with convincingly framed shots and memorable imaging. 

Please Respond is set to be released by X4 Pictures in early 2024. For those who appreciate the more experimental, microcinema side of filmmaking this will be a good one to check out. 

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic