VIFF 2019 | Short Film Spotlight: 'The Physics of Sorrow' Review
11/12 ForReel Score | 4.5/5 Stars
The feeling of not belonging. Separation from love. Darkness. Farewells. The end of the world. What could best define such an assortment of lonely events?
Sorrow.
The Physics of Sorrow lines up circumstances to both figuratively and literally illustrate the life of an unknown man. He recounts these events while simultaneously pondering the purpose and ironies of life.
“Haunting” is an appropriate description for the 27 minute film, from its ominous tone to the invisible man wandering though the most tumultuous parts of his own narrative. But while The Physics of Sorrow whips viewers from one phase of the subject’s life to the next at increasing pace, the choice in narrative delivery is exquisite.
Rossif Sutherland narrates the story with compelling conviction in his deep-toned and articulate voice. It’s a vocal performance that adds significant value to the unique tone of the film.
And not only is the storytelling remarkable, but the medium used to visually communicate the narrative is extraordinary. Director Theodore Ushev employs encaustic painting for this feature; a technique involving heated and pigmented wax to create images.
The Physics of Sorrow is a fascinating short to watch as Ushev’s abstract imagery and compelling storytelling brings the film’s themes into focus.
Acting and Casting - 2 | Visual Effects and Editing - 2 | Story and Message - 2 | Entertainment Value - 2 | Music Score and Soundtrack - 1 | Reviewer's Preference - 2 | What does this mean?