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Deserters

War is an experience that is difficult to put into words. It is raw, violent, and traumatic, leaving those on the frontlines in a state of shock. But what happens when a soldier can no longer endure the relentless horrors of battle—the sight of their comrades falling one by one? Deserters delves into this question, following Tommy Tull, a young West Indies recruit, who flees a violent mission in the forests of Belgium.

He soon encounters Finn, an Irish officer who takes him in at an isolated cabin. However, as Finn begins to suspect that Tommy may be a deserter, he instead proposes an alliance to ensure their survival. From this moment on, the story takes an unpredictable, albeit somewhat hesitant, approach in developing the bond between the two soldiers. The tension is palpable in their confined surroundings, and the dialogue effectively captures the fragility of their situation—how easily one wrong word could shift the balance. Yet, despite this, full immersion can be a challenge. While set in 1916, over a hundred years ago, the short film brings a modern touch to its execution.

Beyond this, Tommy’s predicament is clear—he has fled and is now branded a deserter. However, the stakes for Finn remain uncertain. While there are moments of suspense between them, Finn presents little direct threat, instead offering repeated chances for collaboration rather than serving as a genuine obstacle in Tommy’s journey.

Their dynamic is ultimately put to the test when a German soldier stumbles into the cabin, revealing their true natures. Finn is determined to kill him, while Tommy hesitates, unable to bring himself to do the same. This moment highlights one of the film’s key themes—the extent to which one’s values can withstand the pressures of survival.

The script does a great job of exploring these moral dilemmas, the cast performances are captivating, engaging the audience in the physicality of the action, though there is room to strengthen the emotional depth of the characters' struggles. Tommy’s transformation by the film’s end is well-orchestrated and makes narrative sense.

Deserters delivers tense and intriguing sequences, supported by a passionate cast whose commitment keeps the film compelling. The cinematography is truly captivating, elevating the film’s atmosphere and intensity. The high-quality production design creates a notable visual experience, each frame is thoughtfully composed, balancing impressive visuals with an immersive sense of place. While this unique aesthetic choice adds an intriguing layer, it may give the story a timeless quality rather than anchoring it fully in its historical setting.

Deserters is a gripping and stunning visual film that effectively captures the tension and moral complexities of its narrative. While it takes a unique approach to its time period setting, the film’s strong performances, engaging cinematography, and well-executed action sequences ensure a mesmerizing experience.

All in all, Deserters remains a thought-provoking and passionate piece of filmmaking that leaves a lasting impression.