The short film Show Pony, directed by Jordan Tweddle and written by Lee Mattinson, has been officially selected for the Direct Monthly Online Film Festival, marking an exciting step in its festival journey. This darkly humorous exploration of trauma and memory continues to gain attention for its unique narrative and bold creative approach.
A Bold Exploration of Trauma and Memory
Show Pony follows Malcolm, a former West End actor who survived a harrowing on-stage triple homicide attempt. Now, he leads an unconventional improvisational therapy class where participants reenact and rewrite their most painful memories. Malcolm’s belief that revisiting trauma and altering its narrative can lead to healing serves as the heart of this surreal and thought-provoking story.
Director Jordan Tweddle explores the fluid nature of traumatic memory, blending reality and imagination. “Trauma memories aren’t static snapshots,” Tweddle explains. “They warp and shift, blending fragments of the real and the imagined as the mind replays them.”
Striking Visuals and a Talented Ensemble Cast
A standout element of the film is its use of “white space,” a symbolic blank canvas where characters reenact and reinterpret their memories. Tweddle describes this space as “a counterpoint to the grounded, often harsh reality of the therapy room,” offering a visually dynamic way to navigate the characters’ emotional journeys.
The ensemble cast delivers standout performances, led by Richard Dixon as Malcolm. The group—Mark Rogerson, Briony Davies, Katherine Littrell, Samuel Young, Llewyn Ayres, Jane Pratt, and Helen Goldie—brings humor, vulnerability, and depth to their roles, creating a film that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
Complementing the performances are Helen Lyon’s evocative score and Chris Chapman’s striking cinematography, which capture the surreal interplay of memory and imagination.
Festival Recognition
Selection by the Direct Monthly Online Film Festival highlights Show Pony’s artistic strength and creative vision. Known for showcasing innovative storytelling, the festival provides a platform for films that push boundaries, and Show Pony is a fitting addition.
“This recognition validates the hard work and creativity of everyone involved,” Tweddle shared. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve created and excited to share it with a broader audience.”
The Journey Continues
Show Pony’s selection is just the beginning of its festival journey. With its compelling story, rich ensemble performances, and visually striking style, the film is poised to make a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike.
Stay tuned as Show Pony continues to redefine how we think about trauma, memory, and the power of rewriting our own stories.
You can now watch Show Pony on the DMOFF website: https://dmoffest.com/show-pony/
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