This Is John

This Is John is a 2003 independent film starring Mark Duplass, written and directed by Jay Duplass. It is a short and truly minimalist movie, clocking in at just under 8 minutes, and is entirely set in one small room.

The film follows John, played by Mark Duplass, who dials an automated customer service line in the hopes of leaving a message for his girlfriend. However, as he begins talking into the phone, he suddenly becomes introspective, speaking directly to himself as much as he is speaking to the automated voice on the other end of the line. Throughout the film, it becomes clear that John is grappling with some heavy emotions, particularly related to his relationship with his girlfriend.

Despite its brevity, This Is John packs an emotional punch. Duplass delivers a nuanced performance that captures the complexities of human emotions exceptionally well, particularly given the film's minimalistic style. The film is shot in black and white, adding an additional layer of introspection and melancholy to the already somber atmosphere.

At its heart, This Is John is a meditation on the way humans connect with one another - or, more accurately, struggle to connect. Throughout the film, John's frustration and loneliness are palpable, as he grapples with the limitations of technology and language in expressing his feelings. At times, he seems to be talking just to hear his own voice, a desperate attempt at making some sort of connection. It's a powerful and resonant reminder of the difficulties of communication, particularly in a world where technology seems to both enable and undermine our ability to connect with one another.

While the film's minimalist style may not be for everyone, those who appreciate experimental filmmaking and the power of subtle emotional performances will likely find a lot to enjoy here. The film's concise storytelling and stark black and white visuals lend it an almost timeless feel, making it just as poignant and relevant now as it was when it was first released.

All in all, This Is John is a quiet but powerful film that showcases Mark Duplass's considerable acting talent and Jay Duplass's skill as a director. It's a fascinating exploration of human connection and the limitations of language and technology, and is well worth watching for anyone interested in experimental filmmaking, independent cinema, or simply powerful emotional performances.