In writer/director Ryan Jamison's quiet and beautiful eight-minute short film The Man Who Lived Forever, an old man (Pascal Belanger) on his deathbed seeks peace with his imminent fate through an old film reel of his father. 

With intimate and immersive lensing by Karina Jesson, The Man Who Lived Forever is an observational film eloquently capturing vividly realized end-of-life reflections, moments, and memories quietly brought to life through Belanger's dignified presence and supporting performances by Marie Isserman as a nurse and Damien Teissedre as the old man's son. This is a film that communicates much within its silence and yet Jamison's sparse, meaningful dialogue is also sublimely placed in all the right places. 

Original music by Jack Aldous serves as a peaceful companion to the film and costume design by Marie-Adeline Sekula adds another layer of honesty and authenticity to the film's simple yet universal story. 

There isn't a lot that unfolds in The Man Who Lived Forever. There isn't a lot that needs to unfold in the film, though there's a common thread throughout the film that connections each action and each character. It's a lovely little film that should easily find its home on the indie fest scene. 

The Man Who Lived Forever is the second film I've seen from Jamison and it's a reminder that he's a filmmaker to watch in the future. If you get a chance to check out the film at a festival near you, I advise you to do so.

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic