A Reasonable Request

A Reasonable Request is an engaging dark comedy from 2015 directed by Andrew Laurich. Sporting a succinct running time of just 10 minutes, the film manages to make its mark in short order. Known for its unique approach to premise, storytelling, and comedic timing, this short film has notched up several notable accolades at film festivals worldwide, having been officially selected in the category 'Short of the Week' adding testament to the movie's popularity and appeal.

Starring Stephen Ellis and John Ennis, this short film revolves around a strange and surreal conversation between a son and his father, that takes an unexpected and disturbingly humorous turn. The movie's quirky and daring narrative approach heightens the viewers’ anticipation while they navigate through the layers of this unusual encounter.

Stephen Ellis plays the role of the son, an unassuming yet intriguing character who draws viewers in with his mix of charm, desperation, and uncomfortable yet persistent matter-of-factness. His character is shown as someone caught in a unsure situation that is as unusual for him as it is for the audience, hence he perfectly embodies the audience’s own feelings of laughter mixed with shock.

John Ennis plays the character of the father, an everyday man suddenly having to confront the unimaginable and painfully embarrassing request of his son, all while trying to maintain his composure and find some logic in the situation. Ennis' performance makes the audience root for his character as he tries to wade through an absurdly unconventional and unnerving situation.

Director Andrew Laurich masterfully directs the film in a way that maintains the balance between entertaining the audience while also touching on highly sensitive topics. His technique of using a comedic and satirical lens for focusing on a more somber subject matter tantamounts in delivering a heart-hitting story that is deeply engaging and emotive.

The film banks not only on its plot but also on its pithy dialogues and the performance of the lead actors. The chemistry between Ellis and Ennis and their compelling performances contribute much to the film’s impact, making this peculiar situation seem grimly real. Their sublime performances flawlessly move the story forward, their responses and facial expressions dictating the story as seen by the viewers.

The setting of the film too enhances its dialogues and plot. The idyllic restaurant scene, the calm before the storm, the contrasting juxtaposition of a casual conversation to the topic discussed, together make the premise more unsettlingly hilarious.

While it's a comedy at its heart, A Reasonable Request subtly comments on society's notions of morality, duty, and boundaries within personal relationships. It gently prods the viewers to question what is socially acceptable, and challenges their comfort zones in a way that is both distressing and blithely humorous.

Through its short running length, A Reasonable Request takes a risky and audacious route but achieves its objective remarkably well - to get the audience shaking with laughter, rooting for the characters, and simultaneously shifting uncomfortably in their seats.

The movie does not shy away from touching upon a daring choice of topic that most mainstream movies won't dare to tread. All this, combined with the commendable performances of Ellis and Ennis, the director's vision, the surreal but relatable situation portrayed, and the excellent screenplay make A Reasonable Request a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts looking for something different, something that brilliantly blends a sensitive topic with comedic undertones to cater to a laughter filled yet thought-provoking viewing experience.