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Ramblings magazine Sleeping dogs review by Tim elsy 2014-08-14 "For some reason I haven’t reviewed any short films yet. It’s something I’ve been meaning to do and a direction I’ve been meaning to take the film section of Ramblings in, and with Sleeping Dogs I finally got that chance. From the Arts University Bournemouth and director Chris Fowles, I was enthralled from the first shot. Sleeping Dogs is a short film, just shy of seventeen minutes, that follows a recently paroled man with a shady past on a caravan holiday with his wife and two kids. Throughout the film we are teased with fascinating tid-bits about his past as he grows ever more concerned with a mysterious man who seems to have been following him. All of this is wonderfully backed with wonderfully colourful, British seaside scenery. And in the end, the film gives a fleeting yet powerful set of values about family, fear and letting go of the past. As I said, Sleeping Dogs is a film that wows from the very first shot and continues to do so throughout its running time. In terms of cinematography, every shot seems so masterfully crafted and worked, with the composition professionally produced blockbusters should be jealous of. Accompanied by good quality sound recording and a score that hits in just the right places, this vibrantly colourful and detailed film is a delight for the senses. And I haven’t even mentioned the story. A lot of short films have one of two problems: trying to cram too much story into a short time, or trying to stretch a terribly simple concept into something more meaningful. Sleeping Dogs truly shows the time and effort put into its script as every line and every event fits perfectly together and draws us forward to the next with an anticipation that never falters. The dialogue feels true and the world feels so very real with such rich characters and backstory. The film consists of a cast of colourful characters who fit the world and make it truly stand out. Delivering an emotional plucking of our heartstrings and funny bones alike, there’s a lot to relate to and empathise with. By the end of the film, these rough characters become so genuinely likeable and personable that you end up hoping for their safety through their struggles. In conclusion, Sleeping Dogs is a true triumph of a short film that Fowles and all who worked on it should be truly proud of. A beautiful and emotional piece that fulfils the creators’ wishes to make a short film that, first and foremost, is entertaining. A fleshed out world and expertly crafted characters lead this spectacular viewing that is every bit a delight to behold." www.ramblingsmagazine.co.uk |