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marry77
Reviews
Stigma (2011)
Compelling and thought provoking but what happens next?
I saw this two part series after reading a cover story about Adam J. Yeend in my local newspaper. While the production was fairly crude, it actually added to the realism as I viewed this heavy subject matter which was well-written and beautifully performed. Both Myra and Robert appear as contemporary victims living in fear of being found out as they do their best to repress their true feelings and question their place in the world. Without spoiling the crisis as it unravels for this soon to be married couple, the plot hinges on subject matter relating to religious upbringings, abortions, HIV status, and other social taboos. The performances of Eddie Ritchard and Adam J. Yeend are so real, you almost feel like you're invading their privacy as their characters both confess on camera, and Yeend's episode 'Robert' especially brought me to tears. Playing Americans, both actors do well at hiding their native Aussie accents too. But while the series is very compelling, ultimately its unsatisfying as there is no resolution as to what is going to happen to this couple. I'd love to see the series continue with further parts so we can find out if they do indeed find peace which is ultimately what both characters are seeking. Still, this is well worth your time and hopefully just a preview of things to come for Adam J. Yeend as an actor/writer.
Untitled/The Trees (2007)
A well crafted piece...
I saw this short with several other films as part of a showcase in Sydney and I found it was easily best of the lot. For a short, 'Untitled/The Trees' was very cinematic; well shot, had a great soundtrack and the performances from the very sexy cast (particularly from the two guys) were outstanding - you could feel the tension between them; who was being honest and who wasn't. The film has two story lines happening simultaneously - three student actors in a school play, then the actors themselves partying in a Motel room. What's interesting is how the storyline in the play blends with what's going on in the Motel room, and these three youths definitely have a lot happening - peer pressure, drugs, lies, sex, narcissism, and some strong homo-erotic undertones. As far as experimental cinema goes, if you have a chance to see it, this is a short film that is definitely worth a look!