Brief Somebodies follows a very difficult subject. Regardless of whatever story one aims to tell, the subject of sexual violence is difficult to digest. And although I understand the artistic intention of writer/director Andy Reid, I can’t say I was able to enjoy the story he told. I know that some stories are not supposed to evoke something pleasant, and this is one of those movies.
I understand whatever need there is to tell this story. Not because I believe it’s fully necessary but because I believe in artistic freedom. Every artist should get a chance to tell a story, and Reid’s decision to frame a somewhat romantic story under a complicated theme is personal. Perhaps I’m simply not supposed to be engaged by Brief Somebodies, and that’s OK.
The short feature film follows two actors from a different background. Joel is an actor working on a semi-autobiographical feature. Calvin is his partner in the movie, and he has been hired to sexually assault Joel on screen. The film follows their interaction as they try to find a way to accomplish a realistic depiction of something as horrific as a sexually violent attack. And then, there’s more. They connect beyond the requirements of this specific scene, and naturally, it becomes a bit complicated.
Beneath the clear intention of showing the uncomfortable environment, Joel is forcing himself in, subjecting the character to further interaction outside the set feels strange. There’s no chemistry on set, and there shouldn’t be. These are two professionals doing their job. And then, reality hits and Brief Somebodies becomes a mysterious approach to catharsis. At least, that’s what I got.
The secret lies in the final scene. Trauma is heavy in the air, and through the interaction of the actors, we find out that whatever they do is not easy. It’s a physical act that some find arousing (because of the way it’s shot), but the violence is in the background, lurking like a monster. Joel is the leader of the project, and there’s doubt in his face. When he sees the scene he just shot, he thinks and meditates. There’s no clear answer as to what concerns him. But given his previous interaction with Calvin, you can take a million guesses.
Again, Brief Somebodies is not my kind of short feature. I believe there’s a story here, but the premise is far too heavy to be secondary, and the sexual assault element becomes an incendiary elephant in the room. Joel and Calvin’s past, their knowledge of the subject, and their previous experiences must count for something that Brief Somebodies doesn’t fully communicate. However, I can’t deny that it’s an interesting twist, beautifully shot by a director who knows his stuff.
Film critic. Lover of all things horror. Member of the OFCS. RT Approved Critic.
