A Crush, a Sting, and Utter Chaos!

Read Time:3 Minute, 38 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Tea
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Genre: Short, Drama, Comedy
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 12m
Director(s): Blake Rice
Writer(s): Blake Rice
Cast: Michael Gandolfini, Olivia Nikkanen, Matt Van Orden, Zina Louhaichy
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Nashville Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: From the start, TEA pulls the audience into a narrative centered around Nicholaus Steep (Michael Gandolfini,) a timid tech store clerk whose life is about to take on a whirlwind of change while he is practicing asking out his dream girl. Directed by Blake Rice and featuring Gandolfini and Olivia Nikkanen as Tierney Bayer, the film combines moments of heartfelt emotion with dark humor. Recognized as the only U.S. film in the Short Films Competition at the Cannes Film Festival, it sets its sights on the 2025 Oscars, marking itself a strong contender.

Nicholaus' journey in TEA is a cocktail of humor and poignancy in equal measure. His attempt to declare his feelings is uproariously derailed by an ill-timed hornet sting, transforming what should have been a simple, heartfelt moment into an outlandish comedy of errors. Gandolfini embodies Nicholaus with a relatable vulnerability, portraying the intense emotions of young love that resonate with audiences universally. Nikkanen balances the scale with her grounded and empathetic performance, which becomes a cornerstone amid the unfolding chaos.

Director Blake Rice navigates the intricate web of modern relationships with a deft touch, pulling viewers into Nicholaus’ fight against solitude and his yearning for a more profound connection. TEA's blend of humor and introspection highlights Rice's ability to fuse various filmmaking elements to enrich the narrative, making every scene count in its short 12-minute runtime.

The film employs a raw visual style, reflecting Nicholaus’ emotional instability. This deliberate choice amplifies the protagonist's internal chaos, enhancing the film’s genuine emotional themes. Along with the film's quick pacing, the style plays perfectly along the wild ride of chaos, confusion, and the unknown.

The casting for the film was perfect, with Gandolfini in a role that feels like he was born to play as he navigates Nicholaus’ comedic yet fraught journey toward self-discovery with remarkable finesse. Nikkanen’s performance is equally compelling. She provides a solid anchor that complements the dynamics of her co-star; he outburst feel so authentic and perfectly balanced to Gandolfini’s subdued responses.

The screenplay is a crucial component of TEA. It delivers a script filled with light-hearted yet impactful moments that draw the audience deeper into the characters' anxieties and aspirations. The script weaves humor through the fabric of human imperfections and life’s inherent unpredictability, a theme poignantly symbolized by the disruptive sting.

As TEA continues its run in the festival circuit, garnering acclaim and potentially setting up a shot at Oscar recognition, it is more than just a comedy short. It’s a thoughtful exploration of the complexities of interpersonal communication and the courage required to establish connections amidst the unpredictability of life.

TEA is a layered portrayal of the human condition crafted through stellar performances, dynamic direction, and a simple yet powerful script. It delivers an entertaining and meaningful narrative, exploring the complexities of human interaction with a blend of humor and heartfelt insight.

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[photo courtesy of BLAKE WINSTON RICE]

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