User Reviews

I was spellbound as I viewed the trailer for Litmus Paper. The trailer stirred my curiosity in a very real and naturalistic way. I wondered where these actors would take me? It would surely be to a place of depth, passion and intrigue. A place that can only be constructed by an imaginative and creative director. The actress, with her graceful and sensual manner made me wonder about her character. What was this story about? What were the other characters doing there? This was a mystery that needed to be resolved. The trailer with it's simplicity is refreshingly understated... so unlike the manipulative and overly dramatized clips that evolve from second or third rate films. I appreciated this along with a style that promised a story with great depth.

The Basics Overall view of basics (Fair, Good, Very Good, Excellent): Very Good Overall style, originality, and depth of narrative? 8.5 Is the genre clear? (1-10) 8.5 Level of technical proficiency (scripts) or quality of sound & lighting (produced)? (1-10) 8.5 Is the execution concise, action driven, & visual (scripts) or quality of editing (produced)? (1-10) 9 Average basics score: 8.6 Structure/Plot Overall view of structure and plot (Fair, Good, Very Good, Excellent): Good Is the hook/concept and premise clear? (1-10) 8.5 Are the scenes cohesively placed & do they flow naturally? (1-10) 9 Is there a clear dilemma of magnitude that sets the story up? (1-10) 8 Does the conflict/tension rise & drive the story forward? (1-10) 8.5 Does the story culminate in a strong crisis – the make or break point – that leads to a payoff or resolve? (1-10) 8.5 Are the subplots, if any, resolved in the end? (1-10) 8 Average structure score: 8.4 Characterization/Acting Overall view of Characterization (Fair, Good, Very Good, Excellent): Good Are the characters/actors memorable and detailed well? (1-10) 8 Is there a central protagonist & opposition that clash and create conflict? (1-10) 9 Are the characters developed with depth & range? Are their traits precise? Is their worldview justifiable? (1-10) 8 Do the characters have a distinct voice? (1-10) 8 Are the characters motivations, goals, and actions clear? (1-10) 9 How well developed are their arcs? Do they learn and grow from actions? (1-10) 8 Is the dialogue authentic according to setting and environment? (1-10) 8.5 Does the dialogue accomplish a purpose while also delivering multiple levels of subtext? (1-10) 8.5 Average characterization/acting score: 8.4 Theme & Commercial Potential Overall theme and commercial potential (Fair, Good, Very Good, Excellent): Very Good Is the concept fresh, unique, original? (1-10) 8.5 Is the hook compelling enough to keep the reader/viewer engaged? (1-10) 9 Is the theme powerful enough to resonate with an audience? (1-10) 8.5 Is it commercial? Does it appeal to a targeted audience? (1-10) 8.5 Is the premise/story executed well? (1-10) 8.5 Average theme & commercial potential score: 8.6

The Basics Litmus Paper does a great job with the opening sequence of shots of establishing a dark, moody, sexy tone, one that carries the film stylistically throughout. The production value is of great quality, rarely faltering within the film. The lighting is excellent, further helping create a certain mood and atmosphere for the film. Despite having the challenge of filming in various locations, indoor and outdoor, the sound quality achieved is fantastic. The editing is good, never becoming interruptive or confusing for the viewer. Of course, all of this starts from an original premise involving a homosexual couple and a sudden discovery sure to change their relationship. This unique concept sets forth a powerful dramatic plot, one that is gripping and shocking. Structure/Plot The scenes are organized in a well thought-out way, easing into the next with relative ease. One of the best features of the film is the way it reveals details and issues revolving around the main conflict slowly and at nice, relaxed pace. The film does a fantastic job of allowing the audience to piece together the narrative, relying on their intelligence which is the sign of an experienced filmmaker. Basically, the audience is in charge of filling in the blanks, all but guaranteeing the viewer to be engrossed in the plot. Tension certainly builds throughout the film, leading to a great crisis for the female protagonist. Characterization/Acting First of all, the acting by the three main characters is solid. The interactions between all of them feel very real and are emotionally charged. The dialogue between the characters is believable and well written. The film offers a brief glimpse into the lives of the characters, leaving the viewer wanting more. Theme & Commercial Potential The themes of the film are ones that most any adult viewer can relate to. Despite the film featuring a homosexual and heterosexual relationship, there is no question that, no matter what sexuality the viewer is, that this type of film can have an effect on a wide audience. Concluding Remarks Litmus Paper is a unique, moody, and well-made short film with a gripping conflict.

I saw Litmus Paper at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. I loved it. I thought that Michele Vella did a great job, from the first to last scene. She carried so much subtext through the scenes, that when dialogue was not driving the scene, for example the long shot through the subway, that I was interested. I love seeing the pretty girl take on the gritty role. ; ) Honestly, I just want to see more. I loved the relationship between the actors in the couple, Allison Pearlman opposed Ms. Vella quite well. I enjoyed how gross the guy she went to see was. Cereal and beer! Ew! It was moody and I like that about it. I also want to comment on the music. I loved the last song that played through the credits. Awesome!