There are a number of things that I admire about the British film scene, though one of my absolute favorite things is that you can readily find even the biggest British actors devoting time to both the indie film scene and short films. Here in the States, once an actor attains a bit of celebrity it seems as if the indie scene becomes less important and shorts? Not a chance. 

So, I was delighted to watch writer/director Dan Bronzite's 24-minute dramatic short All That Glitters and see Sophia Myles (Tristan & Isolde, Tranformers: Age of Extinction) front-and center in this twisty tale that immerses us in a compelling tale involving Margaret (Myles), a seemingly wealthy woman with an idyllic life who becomes a victim of a purse grab by Eddie (Mackenzie Proll). It's pretty clear that she's targeted because she's an upper-class woman while Eddie is, well, definitely not upper-class. However, there's an unexpected twist here that I'm hesitant to reveal other than acknowledging it's triggered by a car accident and sends our characters down an emotionally honest, resonant path of trauma, redemption, and revelations about Margaret's not so idyllic life at home with hubby David (Alec Newman). 

All That Glitters was quite the success on the indie fest circuit with 32 awards in 50 fests. The London shot film carries grit galore and a story in which the common ground we discover is both surprising and yet uniersal. Lensing by Simon Rowling amplifies the film's dramatic storytelling and original music by Jean-Loup Pinson is a perfect complement to Bronzite's intelligent, intuitive storytelling. Kudos as well for Sinead Skinner's costume design and the production design from May Davies. 

The work from Myles here is simply exceptional and she plays every note of Bronzite's story quite sublimely. Alec Newman is also exceptional as David, Proll is absolutely riveting as Eddie, and the always terrific Sidney Kean is great in support. 

All That Glitters tackles serious subject matter and does so with intelligence and wisdom. While there are certain familiar notes here, Bronzite has crafted a winner of a short film that stays with you long after the closing credits have scrolled by.

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic