Annie Waits

Annie Waits is an engaging short film from 2017 that focuses on themes of romance, life changes and the eternal pursuit of happiness.

Directed by Marnie Paxton, the film is a gripping narrative about the protagonist Annie, portrayed with finesse by April Kelley, whose life seems stuck in a loop of unfulfilling relationships. Annie is an endearing and slightly quirky character, whose experiences reflect common struggles with love and fulfillment. She's easy to relate to and has a certain charm that makes you root for her throughout the movie.

The story revolves around the much-awaited arrival of love in Annie's life. This cyclical pattern of anticipation, where she continually waits for the mythical "right one" to come along, shapes the movie's narrative arc. While the premise sounds relatively simple, the execution is far from it. The film brilliantly captures the nuances of fleeting relationships and the universal human yearning for profound emotional connection.

Complementing April Kelley's performance, Matthew James Ovens and Sam Gittins deliver stellar turns as the various men who come in and out of Annie's life. Each character brings forth a different facet of Annie's experiences and contributes towards her growth. The interactions between characters are not only entertaining but also push the narrative forward, keeping the audience invested in Annie's journey.

Visually, Annie Waits excels with its crisp cinematography and attention to detail. The aesthetic elements contribute to the overall tone and mood of the film, making it a delightful watch. Example of this is the prevalent motif of waiting, which is subtly presented in the form of various clocks, watches and timepieces that constantly appear in the background. This not only builds the film's atmosphere but also gives a visual cue to Annie's state of mind.

The film beautifully blends elements of drama and romantic comedy. The story fluctuates between moments of hilarity and poignant introspection, offering a balanced viewing experience. The humor in Annie Waits is deftly handled, often deriving from the absurdity of everyday situations and the bluntness of Annie's character rather than slapstick comedy. On the other hand, the dramatic sequences provide depth to the characters, making it easy for viewers to empathize with their dilemmas.

Annie Waits is also notable for its sharp, fast-paced dialogues that make every conversation interesting and engaging. Subtle nuances in the dialogues reveal a lot about each character, their relationships, and their views about life, love, and happiness. The film's script is well-written, with moments of heartwarming sincerity and wry humor woven throughout.

One of the film’s most laudable aspects is its portrayal of modern relationships. It does not shy away from presenting the messiness and complications that come with contemporary dating. Each of Annie's suitors has their flaws, and so does Annie herself. The film doesn't promise a fairy tale ending but offers a realistic perspective on love - a facet of the movie that many viewers might appreciate.

Furthermore, the film employs a non-linear storytelling approach that keeps the audience guessing. As we delve deeper into Annie's story, we're introduced to various elements that add layers to her character. These revelations are not delivered in chronological order, which makes the unravelling of Annie's life even more captivating.

In essence, Annie Waits is a lovely exploration of a young woman's journey through the minefield of love and relationships. April Kelley's believable and spirited performance as Annie anchors the film, and the supporting performances by Matthew James Ovens and Sam Gittins add further depth to the narrative. With its heartfelt storytelling, compelling characters, and modern take on relationships, Annie Waits is worth a watch for any fan of romantic dramas with a bit of comedic relief.