Céline Roustan
The process of searching for a job is already stressful enough, but when we finally get a call to schedule an interview, it can cause even more nervousness. Right up until that moment when you finally have to introduce yourself. In Benjamin, Benny, Ben we join the film’s titular protagonist on his way to a job interview, as he stresses over how to introduce himself to his potential employers. Written and directed by Paul Shkordoff, this 7-minute short takes us on an anxiety roller coaster, as we’re immersed in the perspective of a man overcome with worry.
We are conditioned to believe that having a job is almost mandatory to be a part of society, and being an “adult”. So, what’s more relatable and universal than the journey to that first interview. Inspired by his own “struggles to find work as a young adult, and with it, a sense of purpose”, Shkordoff penned the screenplay by focusing his narrative on the emotional toll of the experience, rather than a more factual approach.
With this simple slice of life, from the narrative alone, we are inclined to root for Shkordoff’s protagonist. But, the fact that he is naturally anxious truly ramps up the tension and raises the stakes of the story, which draws the audience in quicker and more effectively. His story never feels convenient or manufactured and there is a poignant authenticity in the writing that grounds the film. The fact that Benjamin keeps on repeating/rehearsing his opening line is what got me personally.
The camera never strays far from lead actor Anwar Haj
Shkordoff immerses his audience in Benjamin’s state of mind by crafting an incredibly anxious atmosphere. Echoing his character’s experience, the tension builds throughout the runtime of the film, right up until the release at the end, which feels like such a relief. Collaborating with DP Peter Hadfield, they bring Benjamin’s inner chaos and anxiety to the screen through quick movements and claustrophobic close shots. This energy was then heightened in postproduction, with editor Brendan Mills keeping that momentum going with his sharp edit, which injects the film with a fast pace. While sound editor Paul Germann balances it all off, by finding the perfect mix between Benjamin’s voice and outside noises.
Finally in the titular (three times) role, Anwar Haj is nothing short of remarkable. His powerful portrayal is truly impressive, with his depiction of anxiety both raw and authentic. Maintaining the audience’s attention throughout, whether the camera is focused on his hands buttoning up his shirt or close to his face, his performance feels like the visual manifestation of his inner turmoil. Even his walk carries the load of his mental state disarmingly.
Benjamin, Benny, Ben was set to World Premiere in competition at the 2020 edition of Cannes, and although COVID curtailed the full festival experience, it did screen at the small event they held in October. Before that, the short earned selections at Telluride, TIFF (where it was awarded Best Canadian Short) and FNC in Montreal (where it earned a special mention). It was also nominated in the at the 2021 Canadian Screen Awards. Shkordoff is currently working on his feature debut Import.