One Minute Time Machine

One Minute Time Machine is a smart, quirky, and remarkably engaging short film from 2014. Starring Brian Dietzen and Erinn Hayes, the film loops both romance and time paradoxes into a comedic and light-hearted adventure that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats for the entire 6-minute duration. It explores interesting concepts while delivering an entertaining narrative with endearing characters.

The film begins with James, played by Brian Dietzen, sitting outside on a park bench contemplating an approach towards the attractive woman reading nearby. Dietzen, known for his work on the long time running TV series 'NCIS', plays James perfectly. He captures the awkward yet endearing spirit of a man who is attempting to use an unconventional method to catch the attention of a woman. Dietzen's charm gives the character a likeability that makes him easy to root for throughout the film.

Across him is Regina, the woman who appears to be completely engrossed in her book. She is portrayed by Erinn Hayes, an accomplished actress best known for her roles in TV shows like 'Children's Hospital' and 'Kevin Can Wait.' Hayes plays the initially disinterested Regina with a keen sense of wit and a slight air of mystery. Her interest in James's peculiar pickup attempts fluctuates, sparking intrigue and unexpected humor.

Much of the comedy in One Minute Time Machine hinges on a single prop, a tiny red box resembling a remote control that James claims to be a one-minute time machine. Every time James says something that seems to deter Regina's interest, he presses the button on the device, seemingly disappearing and reappearing a moment later to restart the conversation. This repetitive act creates a delightful narrative rhythm that amplifies the progressively more comical dialogue throughout the film.

One standout aspect of One Minute Time Machine is its effective storytelling, ably crafted by the director Devon Avery. Even with a minuscule runtime, the film manages to create a compelling narrative filled with humor, romance, and suspense, all surrounding the concept of time travel. It showcases a brilliant blend of comedic and philosophical discussions, sometimes teetering on the edge of absurdity, but always returning to a lighthearted and enjoyable beat.

The short film makes impressive use of cinematography and direction, establishing an intimate setting that throws its two main characters into sharp relief. It employs an outdoor setting, mainly focusing on the two characters sitting on a bench where most of the story unfolds. This effectiveness in conveying a comprehensive story within a limited location is a mark of good directing and a well-penned script.

While at first glance One Minute Time Machine might seem to rest solely on its gimmick, the short film pushes beyond this initial perception to ask deeper questions about fate and love. It cleverly uses the notion of time travel to maneuver through James's many romantic blunders and mishaps. The humorous lens through which the main character's persistent failures are viewed, paired with the equally clever reactions of Regina, contributes to an ultimate climax that is surprising and satisfying without being overly predictable.

The casual use of time travel also subtly underlines the potential consequences of such a power. As James continually resets the timeline, the film hints at the numerous paradoxes inherent to the concept of revisiting past moments.

In conclusion, One Minute Time Machine is far more than just a simple romantic comedy. It features great performances from Brian Dietzen and Erinn Hayes, a well-written script, and compelling storytelling. It amalgamates elements of comedy, romance, and science fiction to create a memorable narrative journey full of twists and turns. Its short run time only adds to its charm, making it a refreshing break from longer, more extensive movies or series, without compromising on entertainment value, wit, or thematic depth. One Minute Time Machine is a testament to how an interesting concept, captivating performances, and clever scripting can make for a remarkable short film. It's a must-watch for those seeking a brief yet satisfying cinematic experience.