$13

Melissa Skirbol’s short $13 is a bite-sized emotional gut punch – a seemingly innocuous character piece at first that takes a shocking turn, taking viewers on an unexpected journey within its short narrative.

2 women take a stroll alongside the Hudson River in New York City. The older of the pair (Skirbol) reminisces about frustrations with her former boss Bernie. The younger of the pair (Meghan Martin) can relate – having her own frustrations with her lot. But as the story develops, we realise that the location is of utmost relevance – the presence of One World Trade Centre suddenly looming large. The younger woman realises that the story she is being told is not a typical one, and the trauma of 9/11 is felt by both parties.

The twist at the heart of $13 will be most people’s lasting memory. And while the sudden revelation of the story’s true nature will shock, it is impressive that Melissa Skirbol makes it work. Delivered with a less capable hand, it may have come across as trite or inauthentic. However, Skribol is careful not to over-egg the introduction of a historic tragedy in her short film’s narrative. Landing with an initial, earth-quaking shock, the moment is given chance to breath and dissolve into the film in a manner that feels genuine. This is accomplished through the musical cues, the use of silence and the impressive performances of Skirbol herself and Meghan Martin.

The film is shot beautifully, making full use of the New York skyline at sunset. The setting is obviously plot-relevant, but the ambiance created is also critical for the story’s success. Taking place at sunset feels like no coincidence, as Skirbol’s character yearns to come to terms with a pivotal moment in her life even 25 years on. The contrast with the unforgettable images of 9/11 which took place in the daytime, to the film’s evening glow gives a quiet appreciation of time passed.

There are some moments where the dialogue becomes a little clunky. It feels a little forced at first for the character of Bernie to be introduced, and there are a few other instances of exposition that grate. But once the film finds its momentum, the writing is impeccable. Once Skirbol’s character recounts the people she knew who worked in the towers, audiences will be silently gripped and moved. The women’s bond also convinces, and the chemistry between Skirbol and Martin flourishes with defined dialogue that successfully creates the idea of an age-gap friendship.

$13 accomplishes so much with just a conversation. It is destined to move audiences, not just thanks to its shocking twist, but because of fantastic dialogue and performances that make for an engrossing rollercoaster of a film.