Jack and Jo Don’t Want to Die

By: Malasha Parker

Jack and Jo Don’t Want to Die is a short film directed by Kantu Lentz that gives us a soft futuristic look at what it would be like to have a choice when one wants to stop the pain. It’s interesting to see what the importance of the two characters’ discussion will lead to by the end. They are completely different in many ways, but Lentz brings together a fulfilling piece and ending for the two. If you catch Lentz’s Jack and Joe Don’t Want to Die you’ll see a portrayal of a story of heartbreak, revival and vulnerability. 

Jack (Justin Kirk) is a heartbroken man whose last night turns interesting when one of his subjects Jo (Olivia Edward) is brought out of her suspension period. He reveals some unfortunate news to her about her current state that sets everything into perspective. As he helps her get through reanimation, Jack starts to question his own choices and movements in life. As the short film progresses, Jack questions his reasons for wanting to enter into suspension himself. The two quickly bond and it ultimately brings about a turning point for Jack.  

Olivia Edward’s character immediately ignites light into the film as she ponders what life for her will be like now that she’s been brought out of suspension. She brings both wisdom and naivete to the role of Jo as she discusses her memories with Jack. Kirk plays his part well as a man who doesn’t see happiness in anything else after his breakup. He seems content and certain of his decisions throughout the film. 

The cinematographer Sam A. Davis captures Jack’s journey beautifully throughout the film. The myriad of emotions that display across Jack’s face let the audience know that he’s finally feeling more than heartbreak again at one point. It’s a great choice on the director Lentz’s part as we see the shadows moving around his face. The majority of the film is dark with grey and black tones. Jo brings some color into it with the jacket she wears, but we don’t see many shades until the end of the film. This looks like an intentional choice on Lentz part, as if she wants Jo’s connection and decisions to relate back to Jack’s final moments. 

Jack and Jo Don’t Want to Die sticks to its namesake, even in the midst of the pain the characters go through. Jack is a heartbroken man and Jo is a heartbroken little girl who thinks hope isn’t a pathway for her anymore. Thankfully, the film makes you smile by the end even, though it starts out a little dark. It’s a story about hope and reanimation and one I’d suggest sitting down to watch.