Directed by Charlotte Hamblin, “Everybody Dies… Sometimes” made its International Premiere in the Shorts competition section at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival. This dark comedy short film delves into the depths of death anxiety, following Mara as she grapples with the haunting belief that she is the cause of death for everyone she becomes close to.
The film takes a unique approach in addressing the delicate theme of death anxiety while also exploring the contrasting desire to live. Through the perspective of our protagonist and storyteller, we witness thought-provoking discussions held within the walls of a psychoanalyst’s office, where the urge to kill people after a brief interaction is revealed. There is a chilling revelation as the protagonist informs the psychoanalyst that his own demise awaits him at the conclusion of this psychoanalysis session.
Nietzsche’s philosophy that a child exists within every individual, yearning for play, becomes a recurring motif throughout the entire length of this short film. We are invited to witness the presence of this playful child inside our protagonist, who has long been suppressed. The wounded inner child, ignored and unaccepted, manifests in his desire to mentally annihilate people within our minds.
The narrative of “Everybody Dies… Sometimes” is engaging and captivating, skillfully addressing the complex subject matter. The film’s dark comedy elements are skillfully balanced, highlighting the absurdity of the protagonist’s predicament while maintaining a sense of unease. The set design deserves special mention for its effective portrayal of the story, adding to the visual appeal of the film.
Tanya Reynolds delivers a psychological and mesmerizing performance as Mara, the troubled protagonist. Her portrayal beautifully captures the internal struggles and complexity of the character, leaving viewers astonished at certain moments.
“Everybody Dies… Sometimes” is a thought-provoking and visually striking short film that skillfully explores the intricacies of death anxiety. With its engaging narrative and compelling performances, it leaves a lasting impression on its audience, reaffirming the director’s talent in tackling challenging themes with finesse.
