The Easy Way Out

The Easy Way Out follows Ted (Charlie Hiscock) as he returns to his hometown to find his big brother, Jim (Sam Swainsbury), at his breaking point. The short film explores Ted’s attempt to save Jim before it's too late. The Easy Way Out is based on writer/director Ben Bovington-Key’s own personal lived experiences with bereavement by suicide and is a deeply personal piece of work in that respect.

One of the film's most impactful aspects is its blend of dramatic and comedic charm. Despite its sensitive subject matter, it strikes a stunning balance between the dark humour and depiction of brotherhood. It's an emotionally charged experience as the film explores how an individual would respond in such a gut-wrenching situation. The film immediately thrusts the viewer into the distressing setup, cutting seamlessly between Jim at his breaking point and Ted trying to save him. While it may be triggering for some viewers, the personal lens and the captivating chemistry between the two leads make it impactful and hopeful despite the harrowing subject matter.

The film handles its grim subject matter elegantly, keeping both central characters at the centre of focus while taking time to explore their anger and struggles with the world. Despite the lack of characterisation, the script manages to instantly connect the audience with both characters and sympathise with their struggles. The balance between the comedic and dramatic beats never feels too heavy-handed, and it knows when to utilise the darker humour to represent the characters' personalities. It may leave audiences hopeful and encourage them to reach out to their close friends and family, as this is such an important aspect of life that the filmmakers clearly intended to convey through the material.

While the film primarily takes place in a single location, the use of flashbacks is wonderfully interwoven into the narrative and briefly explores both Ted and Jim’s childhoods. This aspect of the narrative resonates deeply. Writer/director Ben Bovington-Key does a tremendous job framing each sequence to ensure it’s a deeply intimate exploration of brotherhood and the importance of discussion. Wouter Verheul serves as the film’s director of photography and primarily utilises close-up shots between Ted and Jim to cement the personal, intimate bond the brothers share. It's an incredibly raw and uncompromising vision anchored by its technical aspects.

Charlie Hiscock and Sam Swainsbury’s portrayals of Ted and Jim, respectively, are astounding. Sam Swainsbury in particular manages to strike a balance that is both deeply harrowing and comedic in his character's struggles. Charlie Hiscock’s turn as Ted, by contrast, is deeply empathetic, as he conveys his love and frustration with Jim to persuade him to see the world differently. The bond between both characters is profoundly moving and easily the strongest aspect of the experience.

The Easy Way Out is a deeply harrowing yet life-affirming exploration of two relatable characters and their struggles with the world. While it may be a tough watch for some viewers, the film is an empathetic depiction of brotherhood and encourages the audience to reach out to others in need.