Behind the Lens of ‘Play Date’: A Poignant Exploration of Loss
“Play Date,” a 12-minute short film co-directed by Amberlee Colson and Laura Campbell, offers a powerful narrative on grief and healing in the aftermath of a school shooting. The film captures the emotional reunion of two mothers on the one-year anniversary of the tragedy, unfolding a deeply moving portrayal of loss and the struggle to cope.
Produced by an impressive team, including Oscar-winning filmmaker Kenneth Lonergan (“Manchester by the Sea”), Emmy nominee J. Smith-Cameron (“Succession”), award-winning actor Reed Birney (“The Menu”), and SXSW Award-winning director Tracie Laymon (“Bob Trevino Likes It”), “Play Date” is a powerful directorial debut for Colson and Campbell.
The film opens with a visually striking scene: a home decorated for a child’s birthday party, complete with unicorn-themed cupcakes and balloons. This cheerful setting is soon contrasted by the arrival of an unexpected guest — a mother who lost her daughter in the shooting. The host, whose daughter survived, welcomes her, setting the stage for a poignant and raw encounter that highlights the depth of their shared grief.
Cinematographer Audrey Biche’s work is central to the impact of “Play Date.” Biche’s framing captures the nuanced expressions and silent moments between the characters, conveying their inner turmoil and unspoken emotions. The cinematography contrasts the vibrant, celebratory décor with the underlying sorrow of the narrative, emphasizing the duality of appearance and reality. This visual approach not only supports the storytelling but also invites the audience to experience the characters’ pain and healing process more viscerally.
“Play Date” premiered at the Dallas International Film Festival (DIFF) at Violet Crown Dallas, screening on April 27th and April 28th, where it won both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award. The film’s success continued at the Best of DIFF screening at Look Cinema 7 on July 13th. Upcoming screenings include the LAShorts International Film Festival at LA Regal Live on July 19th at 5:30 pm and the HollyShorts Film Festival at TLC Chinese 6 Theatre on August 9th at 2:30 pm.
Biche will share insights into her approach to cinematography during a panel at the HollyShorts Film Festival titled “BECiNE Presents: Cinematography and the Art of Fostering Industry Relationships.” The panel, moderated by Bianca Halpern, will also include Mariscela Mendez and Indeana Underhill, focusing on the role of cinematography in storytelling and the importance of industry relationships. The panel is scheduled for August 11th from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Japan House, Level 5, Ovation Hollywood Mall.
https://hollyshorts2024.eventive.org/schedule/66a42ae4ef644f0047bfea47
