A chance encounter between two people at a statue park leads to a lively conversation as the two nerd out over superheroes and dinosaurs. However, when an unruly guest to the park disrupts the flow of conversation the two of them part without exchanging any personal information. The only thing left to do, is return to the park and hope they come across each other once again.
“If, Why, If” review is part of the Submit Your Film Initiative
A quirky romantic comedy about missed connections, “If, Why, If” puts the audience in the middle of a chance encounter marked by awkward flirting – think two nerds trying to bond over Iron Man. Consequently, the stilted conversations give the young couple an adorable air about them as they try to forge a connection through naming the many superheroes they like. Nothing groundbreaking or deep, but relating a sincerity and awkwardness that many will find relatable.
The ‘disaster’, as outlined in the film’s synopsis, stumbles into the movie as an idiotic tit making a mockery of the display, effectively killing the vibe around the young couple. Easily the part of the story that will feel most familiar (unless you are the idiot that disrupts everyone’s fun), audiences will find amusement in cringing along with the couple as the dolt ruins any rapport the two built up. Overall, the short film thrives on its playful script and scenario to overcome its limitations, of which there are many.
Unfortunately, the technical execution is overly rudimentary and leaves a lot to be desired. Notably, stagnant visuals offer up a single framed shot that is not even complimentary to capturing the actors’ interactions – their faces are barely visible. Furthermore, the soundtrack is a constant annoyance of generic stock music that is used to drown out the background noise of a public park. The execution is a complete mess, barely saved from the doldrums thanks to its witty and endearing script.
The execution of “If, Why, If” leave a lot to be desired, but that is not to say the film is without merit. Notably, the short captures those lost moments, times when we let connections slip past us due to getting caught up in the moment, with an enjoyable light comedic touch. A simple yet effective rom-com, the title is best enjoyed by not digging in too deep and just enjoying the characters for what they are – humans looking for a sincere connection.
