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★★★★
Directed by: Fareed Kairon
Written by: Fareed Kairon, Mark Peter Simpson, Paige Heeter
Starring: Mark Peter Simpson, Paige Heeter, Bryony Purdue
A middle-aged man develops a rapport with a young woman.
Foster (Simpson) is temporarily in Paris. He is a writer and will be returning to Britain shortly. He receives a call from his daughter Judy (Purdue), who is in New York, studying. The discussion begins well, however they end up arguing over Judy's smoking habit. Later he meets Ella (Heeter) a runaway dancer and they strike up a conversation. They discuss their lives, their perception of the world and share significant experiences with each other.
This short drama focuses on the bond of understanding between Foster and Ella, explores the relationship between him and his daughter and themes of family values, friendship, inner struggles and childhood trauma.
Simpson delivers a very convincing performance as former policeman, turned writer. Although he now has another, quite different profession, he has maintained the influences he received by working in law enforcement. He is intelligent and knows how to read people. Heeter is also believable as a person who is trying to find herself, while also suffering from a past tragedy. Purdue is never on-screen, nevertheless her voice acting is great and makes a significant contribution.
Kairon does a good job as director and the lighting and cinematography look superb. The screenplay contains well-written dialogue, interesting characters and and makes the audience want to know more about them.
Zimran Javed's score is a big plus. It is dramatic and beautiful and adds a tone that goes well with the atmosphere.
Undertow is an accomplishment that is worthy of a great deal of praise and recognition. Well acted, with plenty of drama, this is an admirable piece of filmmaking.
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