SHORT SATURDAY
Race, discrimination, prejudice, identity, communal mindedness, and diversity. Everything listed is a matter of great importance in the world today. Although, it’s become such a large and at times convoluted conversation, that society is at risk of making these ideas ‘buzz topics’ rather than meaningful issues. So what’s the answer, or, is there an answer? It won’t be found here, but it might be found in Tribes. Tribes is a short film that undertakes these ideas in a profoundly humorous situation. Starring three actors, each of a different ethnic back-round, the short intends to reach people through arguably the most effectual way possible: Comedy.
Kevin, Jamar, and Amed are three friends who decide it might be a good idea to rob a train car full of people. As logic would dictate, the train is packed with people of different races, from different countries, and different cultures. The robbery is routine until Jamar decides not to rob the black members of the train, simply because he is black. This then prompts Amed to think the same, and soon after, so does Kevin. What then ensues is a hysterical scenario in which the three thieves try to rationalize who it’s ok to steal from and who should be left alone. Citing personal reasons, historical context, and plenty of irrationalities, their initial plan is upended and the three continue to go in circles moving from one thing to the next. In just ten minutes, prepare to laugh harder than ever seemed possible as their farce unravels into chaos.
For a short film, it’s directed and edited fairly professionally with Nino Aldi in the chair. His vision in touching on this subject matter is well implemented in a comedic sense. Writer Andy Marlatt has a clear grasp of the way the public views these topics too, writing a piece that is up to date and very internationally aware. The actors are just a riot. Listening to the three leads support their biases via their individual belief systems is like seeing a Twitter war in session. The actors being robbed and forced to participate in the game of deciding, also give some added value. Plenty of them have hilarious one liners and director Nino Aldi was a big part of seeing that their expressions and reactions to what’s happening made it onto the screen. Everyone does their part to make sure that Tribes is funny, relevant, and smart but not too far-reaching.
Tribes explores some deep themes, and takes a few moments to emphasize them.
Tribes explores some deep themes, and takes a few moments to emphasize them. Though this is the case, this short is still meant to be a comedy. Comedy is a way to release the truth of what everyone experiences, and this short was an almost perfect way to do that. It might ruffle some feathers, but try to remember it’s just meant to be laughable. Also, it’s free. Tribes can be found on the Short of the Week website, or Youtube. Now is the time to either be enlightened, laugh, or even both.
