gizmomogwai
Ubiytsy (The Killers) is the first film by Andrei Tarkovsky, a Soviet director whose work I'm getting to know. The Killers is a students' short film which Tarkovsky directed with two other people. Tarkovsky's scenes at the diner are probably the best. Two gangsters come into a diner and order some food, then act menacingly towards the owner, customer and cook, telling them that they are there to kill a person they are expecting at a diner. Tension and suspense are present throughout, as what we clearly have here are two dangerous men, who are suspiciously cold even before they announce criminal intentions. As well, we have some innocent people, including the black cook who's called a racist slur.In a scene not directed by Tarkovsky, the customer goes to the home of the targeted person to warn him he's in danger. Oddly enough, the man seems uninterested, as if he has accepted his fate. Why he doesn't care and what he did to get into trouble in the first place are questions I would like to know, but the film ends after only twenty minutes. This is somewhat disappointing but still a good short film.
Danny-Rodriguez
This is the best student film I have ever seen. Not only in directing but style also. It's black and white as every good film noir is. If you can call this short film noir or not though is up for discussion. This is a very faithful adaption of Ernest Hemingway's short story The Killers. And the way it's shot, cut and acted is truly remarkable. Especially in one scene when a man walks into the diner while the killers have Nick Adams and the cook tied up in the back. The whole scene plays out without any dialogue but with the customer whistling a happy tune while George makes him his sandwich. A very good scene.The short has no soundtrack and doesn't need one either. With the situation and the dialogue it all speaks for itself. A very good short and worth the money I payed for it.
Herr Nosferatu
Pure genius, though a short, it sends out images of poetry and passion. Seeing an early stage of formation of majestic artistry will astonish all who sees this film. Rich and powerful, it is an element that sends emotions through all who experience this inspired film.