Discover the Best Southern Short Films at EDFF 2025!

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The El Dorado Film Festival held its most outstanding block of short films towards the end. As suggested by its title, Southern Made showcases an exquisitely chosen mix of short films that carry a distinct southern charm. Taken together, they form a vibrant and enjoyable compilation that continues to support a broad spectrum of creative styles and perspectives.

Here are a few impressions out of the nine films included in the block...

Love, in its essence, breathes fresh life into timeless narratives, crafting a poignant journey of self-realization. Filmmaker Taylor Deville infuses the classic romantic comedy genre with her distinctive touch. The narrative unfolds around James (Caleb Lemon), who despises his barista job yet clings to it due to Jessica (Anne Nichols Brown), a customer he adores despite her indifference. Unaware that she’s his dream girl, James is guided by the candid bartender Kate (Ivy McGrew) towards acceptance of reality. Deville’s romcom influence is evident but her movie offers endearing charm and a powerful central message that coalesces effectively by the conclusion.

VERDICT – 3.5/5

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Among the numerous films at the 2025 El Dorado Film Festival, none quite matched the unique charm of “Fast”. This film, a captivating blend of psychological horror, black comedy, and writer-director Clayton Henderson’s personal exploration of fasting, stood out. The protagonist, Jake (Samuel Bosh), is subjected to an extreme fasting regimen by his obsessive fitness trainer (Donnovan Roe) in a desperate bid to lose weight for his girlfriend Sydney (Sara Patterson). The regimen involves seven days without food, with only bone broth allowed as sustenance. As the days pass, Jake’s mental state deteriorates, leading to a climax that is nothing short of absurd, guaranteed to elicit a response. Henderson skillfully navigates horror while keeping audiences in stitches. Simultaneously, his themes of self-acceptance and personal growth resonate deeply.

VERDICT – 4/5

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In “The Artiste,” David Michael Long skillfully captivates viewers through his dual roles as director, writer, and actor. This intriguing dark comedy revolves around Terrence, a disgruntled and volatile street mime portrayed by Long himself. The narrative unfolds as he interacts with Ben (played by Paul Petersen), initially an annoyance, later an admirer, and eventually a rival.

The film showcases a unique blend of humor and poignancy, with the primary driving force being the outstanding chemistry between Long and Petersen. However, it is the profound themes that truly define “The Artiste.” These themes include preserving one’s legacy, the struggle between art and entertainment, and the transient nature of fame in our viral age – ideas that clearly resonate with Long. This thoughtfully crafted and executed short film offers a compelling exploration of these timely topics.

VERDICT – 4/5

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83-year-old Shirley Ford, a resident of East Texas who lost her spouse, finds herself developing an excessive fondness for a man resembling the Marlboro Man in the movie “Pasture Prime,” directed by Diffan Sina Norman. This captivating encounter happens when Shirley meets Marvin Clope (Patrick Kirton) at her church. Their initial friendly exchange ignites a deep fascination within Shirley, which soon transforms into an obsession. Despite concerns from her son Dean (Chris Alan Evans) and daughter-in-law Debbie (Susan Kirton), Shirley finds it challenging to resist the allure of Marvin. The film’s narrative, penned by Carolyn Purnell, is delivered with a Hitchcockian flair, complemented by suspenseful music, thoughtful narration, and strategic humor that adds depth to the storyline.

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In the movie “The Stage,” directed by Jeremy Enis, an experienced yet disenchanted magician named Arthur (played by Lance E. Nichols) prepares for his last performance. For years, he has owned and performed at his own theater, but when it’s time to step on stage, he stuns his longtime assistant Evelyn (Sherri Eakin) by announcing this will be his final show. To make matters worse, he reveals that he doesn’t require her assistance for his closing act, a new trick. As the duo work through their disagreements and express their feelings, the film unveils a profound sense of beauty in sorrow. Enis delivers a heartfelt story with this two-character piece, which ultimately highlights the acting talents of Nichols and Eakin. The onscreen interaction between the characters is so genuine that it feels almost as if you’re witnessing a private conversation rather than a performance on screen.

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2025-03-06 19:10