Intricate Tale of Sound, Silence, and Suffering

Read Time:3 Minute, 34 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
White Noise
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Genre: Psychological Thriller, Short
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 17m
Director(s): Tamara Scherbak
Writer(s): Christina Saliba, Tamara Scherbak
Cast: Bahia Watson, Guifre Bantjes-Rafols, Ryan Hollyman, HoJo Rose, Artemysia Fragiskatos, Jennifer Roberts
Where To Watch: Fantasia 2023 Film Festival – World Premiere July 23, 2023; for more information visit www.fantasiafestival.com

RAVING REVIEW: Welcome to WHITE NOISE, a remarkable 17-minute film masterfully directed by Tamara Scherbak. The film’s star, Bahia Watson, dons the character of Ava with such precision that we find ourselves becoming one with the character, experiencing the world through her heightened sense of sound. Her performance is unlike anything I’ve seen, especially in a short film. Sometimes, emotions can convey a character better than any amount of dialogue.

“People with misophonia are affected emotionally by common sounds — usually those made by others, and usually ones others don’t pay attention to. The examples above (breathing, yawning, or chewing) create a fight-or-flight response that triggers anger and a desire to escape.” Ava, the character Watson portrays, is our eyes and “ears” in this riveting narrative that expertly mixes the grim reality of this condition with an artful charm. Watson’s acting prowess shines throughout, giving life to Ava’s struggles and triumphs, etching her journey indelibly on our minds. Short films have never been this unforgettable!

The only issue is that I wanted more! As soon as I was engulfed in this world, the film concluded, leaving me yearning for more. Make sure you stick around and take in the credits, the proud testament to the creative collective that crafted this cinematic gem. Plus, you can’t experience the entirety of the film without them.

Let’s delve into the heart of the story. Imagine living with the constant barrage of grating sounds – that’s Ava’s world. Tired of failed treatments and a near-fatal attempt to escape her torment, she ventures into a soundless haven – an anechoic chamber. However, the silence quickly mutates into something she could have never expected.

The genius of director Tamara Scherbak and writer-producer Christina Saliba takes us beyond the pain of a debilitating auditory disorder. WHITE NOISE delves deep into the labyrinth of Ava’s psyche, revealing her condition’s profound impact on her mental health.

Scherbak, a reputed Canadian filmmaker, is the backbone of WHITE NOISE’s triumphant run. Her creative flair and unique storytelling approach have won her praise on the global stage, from film festivals to art exhibits. Her impressive resume boasts experiences from the Toronto International Film Festival, Berlinale, and the Netflix-Banff Diversity of Voices Initiative, fortifying her status in the industry. Her roles across various films have enriched her perspective, allowing her to create unique and engaging cinema.

The film is genuine, a gripping journey crafted meticulously by the cast and crew. Their collective brilliance sheds light on an otherwise overshadowed auditory disorder and the far-reaching psychological consequences it inflicts. The film’s layered narrative and thought-provoking themes trigger introspection on the intricate bond between sensory perceptions and mental health. This truly is more than just a film; it’s an immersive experience that stirs dialogue and contemplation long after the screen fades to black.

Not to mention the incredible audio work on the film that puts you directly in Ava’s “ears!”

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[photo courtesy of MISFIT FILMS/MARC-OLIVIER HUARD]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals’ extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I’m steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #WGA #SAGAFTRAStrong #WGAStrong