The High Road is a relationship-focused short at its very best: without knowing the whole story, we are shown glimpses into a young woman’s life that are almost certain to leave us thinking — and feeling — after that perfect final shot.
Written by Andie Kaiser
The High Road is an intimately focused short that packs a real emotional punch. We’re dropped right into the tumultuous world of Dia (Maria Guimaraes) and her mother Lonie (Bexs Barlow) during a car ride in which they try to make small talk. Clearly estranged after a traumatic event in the family’s past, we see Dia walking on eggshells as she navigates this reunion with her mother.
With a story like this, the central performances are truly crucial, and it’s lovely to see such successful ones here. Both characters are immediately understood to have complex histories (both alone and with each other), and despite the short runtime, they absolutely feel lived-in. The tension between mother and daughter almost never lets up; whether it's through full-out shouting, piercing glances, or simply turning and walking away, the script allows these characters to embody every moment of built-up emotion that’s been stowed away.
In addition to these wonderfully raw performances, the film excels at choosing locations and shots that convey the emotional world of this story. There are few scenes that take place in the dark (either outside, at night, or in a darkened bedroom), and these were particularly fascinating to me. With the rest of the world falling away, we were left only with Dia and Lonie, two islands trying and failing to connect with one another.
Other technical choices, like the shaky camera style of the film’s opening, also worked to create a more tense atmosphere. Close-ups of Dia’s hands shaking or fidgeting let us into her mind without her having to say another word. A particular favorite of mine was the choice to have the audio almost drown out in moments where Lonie began to yell at or berate Dia. It would come on subtly, not drawing attention to itself, but then unmistakably we’d begin to feel like we, too, were sinking underneath the weight of these moments. Small instances like these added texture to an already affecting story.
The High Road is a relationship-focused short at its very best: without knowing the whole story, we are shown glimpses into a young woman’s life that are almost certain to leave us thinking — and feeling — after that perfect final shot.
Cheyenne Christie's short film will be screening on August 18 and twice on August 19.
Learn more about Filmotomy and the Femme Filmmakers Festival here!
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