Directed by: Chris Esper Written by: Kris Salvi Genre: Crime Length: 20 minutes |
Bent
Reeling from the unintentional deaths of a drug dealer and his girlfriend, one would think that for 2 cops, this unfortunate situation would be quickly dealt with; and nothing more would come of it, aside from a "close call" story for their family and friends. But this was no ordinary crackdown. This was not a case of cops defending themselves. Officers Hoggins and Brooks are dirty. This wasn't a "by the books" operation. It was actually a dirty operation that was meant to score these cops with cash and dope. It's unfortunate 2 people had to die - but who cares? Chalk it up to 2 more scumbags wiped off the earth and in return? Hoggins and Brooks continue down their dirty little path with no remorse or cares. To the world they are the good guys and the druggies are the druggies. No harm no foul.
Except? That's not how things turned out. Officer Brenda Hoggins is shook up. This is murder. This isn't just stealing some dope from some crackheads. She's beginning to grow her self a conscience and at if that were not enough? Who do you think has been sniffing around these 2 cops? Internal Affairs. That's who. Soon after the incident, Hoggins finds herself arrested by IA investigator Earl Duke. He wants Hoggins to testify against her crooked partner, and maybe just maybe, she can walk away from all this. Does any of this sound familiar? For any "true" movie buffs reading the answer is yes. But you don't even have to be a movie buff? Ever watch that little known TV show Law & Order? Or any procedural? Kris Salvi's short film is hardly a new concept. In all fairness though? There is a reason why this plot may now be considered cliche. It's popular. So although I can't give points for originality - I won't take any away either. Anyone who loves those old school crime dramas or the newer slicker television productions will feel right at home watching this. So this may be nothing terribly new when talking story, but it's all done so well it doesn't even really matter. The plot is kept on point. The pacing reminds me of those old crime thrillers I love so much and the acting? Billows of smoke higher than so many other low budget titles I can think of. Directer Chris Esper makes sure the story goes from point A to point Z without a hitch. And it looks pretty nice when doing so. There's nothing wrong with a simple story, so long as everything fits into place. It does. Nicely I should add. Bent could be considered a trip down memory lane for some, or just a good title by others. You don't always have to reinvent the wheel to be successful. Sometimes you just have to roll with it and keep things simple. Thanks for reading. |
