Based upon a quote by Ira Glass, Chris Esper's Still Life is an almost meditative narrative short that explores, through the personhood of Martin (Timothy Bonavita), one young photographer's struggles with the creative process and his own talent.

Shot in black-and-white, Still Life is a 12-minute short film that conveys both the artist's passion for his work and, as well, the struggle to open oneself to a wider audience and a critical world. The film works best when it maintains its almost meditative state and we are left to ponder the words and the actions of this young artist. It's not that the dialogue itself is weak, not at all, simply that the inherent limitations of a sound mix for a low-budget short lead to a slightly disjointed auditory experience within the film.

Bonavita does a nice job of conveying the insecurities of a young artist still learning to trust his artistic voice, while David Graziano is also strong as his professor and Carlyne Fournier makes a nice brief appearance as his mother.

The film is beautifully photographed by D.P. Mark Phillips, while the original music from Ryan Campos is in itself a meditative experience.

Writer/director Chris Esper has created a film that is both intelligently written and beautiful to watch unfold, a parallel to the creative process that stays with you long after the film's closing credits have rolled.

© Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic