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Cristina Ballesteros

Postcards from the Island (trailer)

Postcards from the Island is an intimate film about making life decisions and friendships.

 

When I come back to my home in London after a trip to Cuba,

I realise that something has changed in me and now I need to embark on a new journey of self-discovery and take charge of my life.

Directed and Written by Cristina Ballesteros 

Directed and Written by

Cristina Ballesteros 

This short film is part of Postcards, a 43' documentary produced by Mariengood Films, a women's film collective created by Andrea Tudela, Silvana Staudinger, and Cristina Ballesteros.

Check out the trailer of Postcards on

Directed and Written by Cristina Ballesteros 

Review

Written and directed by Cristina Ballesteros, ‘Birdy’ is a short drama film that explores a woman’s fascination with birds. Susannah Scott stars as ‘Birdy’ – the sole character. The film delves into Birdy’s bond with her garden birds and her childhood with her bird-loving father. The short acts as a psychological study of the character and is shot in 16mm to give the film a makeshift finish.

The 9-minute film opens with Birdy observing her beloved birds with binoculars. Her garden is a haven of self-crafted bird-feeders. Birdy breaks the fourth-wall throughout – speaking to the audience directly about her passion for bird-watching. Her intense interest reveals much about the character’s psyche – a lonely woman in desperate need for friendship/companionship or a way to connect to her late-father. Birdy has given the wild birds a name, accompanied with a narrative – revealing her unapologetic obsession. In one particular scene, whilst speaking about her fall out with Jason (a bird), she fidgets with a kitchen knife – exposing her troubling mindset.

Susannah Scott’s portrayal as Birdy is alluring and engaging from start to finish. A tense performance, albeit with a charming introduction. The brilliant use of 16mm cinematography delivers a colorful finish that viewers will find magical. Cristina Ballesteros’ experimental narrative deserves high praise. An interesting watch. Highly recommended.

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