Slap by Nick Rowland

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKFToZzqyZA


Slap is a short film by Nick Rowland focusing on the main character of Connor, a boxer who attempts to hide his love of wearing make up. No direct explanation is given for his enjoyment, other than that it makes him feel good and free. When his gay friend Archie is beaten outside his house he is forced to leave in his dress and make up to help Archie. He then goes to a party, invited by his girlfriend Lola, and wears his dress and make up in an attempt to finally show himself. He is laughed at an berated, and after an argument with Archie, Archie reveals his secret to Lola who he similarly argues with. The following day he enters the ring, and with his pent-up rage, beats a man brutally. The camera cuts away before we see the damage caused.
This short film primarily explores sexual and literal identity, as well as juggling social realism, coming-of-age and being a beautiful character study piece. The representation in this film is arguably its strongest element, Connor although he is a cross dresser is never said to be gay or trans-sexual. Yet everybody around him who sees his make-up self rejects it, immediately calling him these names. Masculinity is explored a lot, with the boxing side which is clearly a deeply masculine sport and opposes this with his hobby. The character himself seems to be a walking contradiction in many ways, and is deeply complex. I feel some more of this complexity could have come out, but none the less it was an incredible character study. The audience were positioned to align with Connor and we began to explore his emotional turmoil, and also we saw all the pressure he was under and the hardships he was forced to face which helped us to identify with him.
I think there are aspects of this film I am likely to use, such as the character study elements, although maybe a bit more introspective than in Slap. Also the coming-of-age feel as well as having a sympathetic protagonist.

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