The Sun Stares Back

A young man discovers a parallel universe.

This interesting supernatural short combines sci-fi with family drama as it tells a story about parenthood, brotherhood and self-discovery.

James (Peaston), is a single fathe who lives with his two twin young sons Tom and Parker (both played by Day). James strongly approves of Tom, who is capable and efficient, while feels rather different towards Parker, who is an avid musician but does not seem to have accomplished much. Then, by accident, Tom finds out that by staring at the sun, he is transported into an alternate reality, where he finds his father, only he is not the father he grew up with but the one he left behind when he first entered the world he knows. His 'other father' (also played by Peaston) has a different appearance and is astonished to see his son again after so many years. Now Tom must decide how to best put things in order in the two worlds.

The main subject in the narrative is the resentment that James feels towards Parker, as it becomes the issue that Tom tries to mend. Tom attempts to convince his dad (his alternate dad maybe) that he should support and approve of Parker, however James appears stubborn, a situation that was caused by Tom entering that dimension, being found by James and becoming his favourite son. The screenplay basically focuses on a bad situation that needs to be fixed.

Since Peaston and Day both play two characters, commendations go to their ability to convincingly portray characters with different personalities.

This film would not be complete without the music that is utilised throughout and alternates between being ominous or melancholic with wonderful piano melodies.

Family values seem to be the core of this short and it examines how they can be violated by parental disapproval. On a more positive note, it also explores the significance of support and how people become better by believing in themselves and understanding who they are. Viewers could acknowledge this film for the messages that it carries and as a science fiction story about parallel worlds with an intriguing plot and good character development.