By: Mariah Thomas
Sometimes the fun of a film is never being quite sure. Visitors is something that is great to watch back at least twice from different lenses. In this film you wonder if Iris is truly experiencing these extraterrestrial occurrences, and or if everything is all in her head. The short film Visitors at SXSW leaves viewers with much to digest.
A young woman named Iris (Sarah Yarkin) begins to feel as if she is losing her mind. She awakens to find her boyfriend Eli (Will Hochman) scavenging through the fridge and having odd behavior. Once she turns the lights on, there is an explanation. This pattern continues throughout her day where Iris is forced to question her own reality. She is also in the early stages of a pregnancy, so the optimal question becomes if she is a reliable narrator.
I enjoyed being able to think of the ending from two entirely different points of view. The film works whether you are thinking of it from either conclusion regarding Iris’s mental state. Sarah Yarkin is wonderful in the lead role, bringing confusion directly to the center as Iris processes her day of chaos.
This is my introduction to writer and director Minnie Schedeen’s work. I found myself fascinated with her ability to make every second feel intentional and instantly set the tone. She is setting the groundwork to continue to develop her directing style, and I look forward to seeing more.
Visitors was a fun SXSW find this year. It was a simple watch that held my interest the entire time and one I think others would enjoy giving their own perspective on.