Written by: Mitch McLeod | Directed by: Mitch McLeod | …
Gun Metal Max
Written by: Jonathan Brooks / Alex Vrettos | Directed by: Jonathan Brooks | Genre: Science Fiction | Length: 11 minutes |
Gun Metal Max takes place during the early 1980’s and all it’s glorious troupes. The animated opening sequence, the 1980’s music and even an old school cassette deck. But the 1980’s only serves as a backdrop for a hero from the future. Gun Metal Max himself and his seemingly never ending battle with the invincible shadows. Gun Metal Max searches different worlds looking for a weapon that can defeat the shadows, and his search has brought him to our world, following on the heels of the shadows themselves. As Ben plays with his toy version of Gun Metal Max, and various other toy figures, something strange happens. Everything goes dark and Ben is confronted by the shadows. Even he knows that this can’t be happening. The shadows are not real. Then, in a burst, Gun Metal Max himself shows up. The real Gun Metal Max. A quick battle ensues and finally, Ben is left alone with his hero. The cartoons and toys are all true and now Ben finds out Earth will be the newest battleground. And Gun Metal Max needs his help. Lately everything is about the 1980’s or 1990’s it feels like. So much so that the novelty has almost worn off. But Jonathan Brooks offers up a little something different. The era is used for style and it’s done well. It’s not a massive 10 minutes of product placement, meant to create a sense of nostalgia for those longing for the old days. Gun Metal Max literally uses the time for the story. And nothing more. Except for the music. That’s a purely nostalgic trip and anyone who grew up then will love it. The cinematography and use of light and smoke also really amp this short film up. Ben’s confused fear is almost physical before what’s happening becomes clear. Everything just seems to work, and work well. I loved how Gun Metal Max is finally introduced, in all his glory. I also loved the voices of the shadows and GMM himself. Perfectly fitting the atmosphere. GMM may feel like a concept film, but it get the point across and keeps you entertained as it does. This is not a crappy looking YouTube video. It’s a polished and fun short film. Because it runs under 10 minutes, you can easily fit it into any schedule. And it’s worth doing. 4 out of 5 stars and thank you for reading. You can follow Gun Metal Max with the links below. And don’t forget to check out the trailer. Find this title online |