Disgusted with his fellow classmates, a young student spends his time at school with headphones on and trying his best to tune out their stupidity. However, there is one thing about school that he loves, a certain girl who has lost her smile due to bullying. When he finds out about a talent show, the young man decides he wants to enter, along with another student, in the hopes of finally seeing his crush smile.
All For Your Smile is Screening at JFFH 2020 Online-Festival
In order to properly frame the review of this short film, we have to mention that the production was executed by High school students. While there is certainly a potential for great talent at such a young age, the making of a school project will limit technical elements while making acting critiques seem unfair or harsh. However, there is a degree of optimism to be derived from the young students, who offer up a well rounded presentation and performances under the restrictions of age and resources. As a result, one of the short's greatest strength is in seeing a youthful and spirited approach to filmmaking that has the potential to shape future careers.
The movie has a strong narrative approach, which takes a while to develop. The initial impression is that of unrefined teenage angst, with a general disgust not really grounded in any firm ideals. This childish approach to angst begins to fade various interactions, allowing for a more empathetic persona to emerge. To further compliment this transition, the script injects complimentary moments of subtle humor, highlighting both the uncomfortableness in transformation and acceptance of a more outgoing personality from the lead. Overall, it is not hard to find some charm in the narrative approach and a degree of appreciation for teenagers to find some depth in storytelling.
Approaching a Highschool project, there are many limitations that are instantly going to restrict the film from broader appeal. This statement certainly extends to “All For Your Smile”, in equipment, training, and experience all apparent. However, for a project of this ilk, the short film still has a fair amount of charm in showcasing the talent of youth.
