Action
Assassins
Directed by Carston Hadlock
Warning – This review contains spoilers.
Assassins delivers a fun and energetic look into a high-stakes game that pits friends against each other in a battle of strategy and wit. As the number of players dwindles, the tension ramps up, and the game becomes increasingly intense. I found the film entertaining, especially with its playful use of classic action film tropes like slow-motion shots and chase sequences. It’s a simple concept but the execution made it enjoyable with plenty of humor sprinkled throughout.
The film has good pacing and the story is easy to follow. We’re thrown into the heart of the action from the beginning with assassins attempting to outsmart each other as they vie to be the last one standing. I appreciated how the film used the cinematography to enhance the chase scenes, especially the dynamic shots of cars pursuing assassins and the camera following them across fields. It added an action-packed vibe to what could have been a straightforward water gun tournament. The use of slo-mo during key moments also gave the film a lighthearted, almost parody-like feel, which worked well with the tone.
From a technical point of view, Assassins has its ups and downs. The lighting was inconsistent, especially in the darker scenes where it became a bit hard to see the action. However, it wasn’t a major issue throughout the film. The sound was clear for the most part, though there was a slight echo in some dialogue, but it didn’t detract much from the experience. The editing flowed smoothly, keeping the film’s pacing tight without feeling rushed, and the action scenes were cut together in a way that maintained the intensity of the game.
Assassins was undeniably fun to watch. There’s a playful nostalgia to it, reminding me of the competitive spirit of water gun fights and games from childhood. It taps into that lighthearted, competitive energy, which is likely to resonate with audiences looking for something that’s both comedic and action-packed.
Assassins offers an enjoyable mix of action and comedy, creating an engaging story from a simple water gun game. Its creative use of cinematography, especially during chase sequences, keeps the energy high, and while the lighting and sound could be improved in places, the overall execution is solid. Audiences who enjoy light-hearted action shorts with a comedic twist will likely appreciate this fun and entertaining film.
Action
The Proposal
Directed by Dan Liu
Dan Liu’s The Proposal is a high-octane action-comedy short that brings together the sharpness of spy thrills with a dose of dark humor, all set against a backdrop of romantic tension. At its core, this film is about a proposal gone hilariously awry, with special agent Jay’s perfectly planned engagement to his partner Alex falling apart due to, of all things, a pair of new shoes.
After completing a mission, Jay prepares to propose to Alex, but her fury over her shoes getting dirty during the mission spirals the situation out of control. This quirky motivation leads to a chaotic, action-packed resolution that sees Alex’s temper trigger a violent spree, leaving no one alive as Jay helplessly watches his “happy ever after” unravel.
What sets The Proposal apart is its seamless blend of intense action and sharp humor. Liu’s background in television, directing episodes of shows like The Walking Dead and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, is evident in the film’s pacing and visual flair. The fight choreography, executed by the 87 North Pro Stunt Class Team, channels a “female John Wick” energy, with Alex dispatching foes with deadly precision, making the film’s short runtime feel like an adrenaline rush.
Technically, The Proposal excels in several areas. The cinematography and lighting ensure that even during nighttime sequences, every punch, kick, and gunshot is clear, creating visually dynamic scenes. The fast-paced editing enhances the urgency and tension of the narrative, while also helping to land the comedic beats. The sound design, in particular, deserves praise for immersing the audience in the action—balancing explosions, gunfire, and witty dialogue without missing a step.
While the plot is relatively straightforward, it works because of the film’s commitment to its characters and tone. Alex, played by Neraida Bega, steals the show as a no-nonsense assassin with a short fuse, creating moments that are as funny as they are thrilling. Jay, the romantic lead, serves as the perfect foil to Alex’s fiery disposition, and their chemistry injects an unexpected warmth into the film’s chaotic setting. The contrast between Jay’s tender intentions and Alex’s bloody rampage is a comedic highlight.
Overall, The Proposal delivers exactly what it promises—an action-packed, funny, and slightly dark romp through a mission gone wrong. Liu’s direction, coupled with the skilled stunt team and sharp performances, makes this short film a must-watch for fans of action-comedy with a twist. Audiences will enjoy the wild ride, and while it may not end in traditional romance, it offers a delightful punch of entertainment.
A clever mix of action and humor that leaves you laughing through the explosions—The Proposal is a quick, fun watch that showcases the talents of Dan Liu and an all-Asian creative team pushing boundaries in the genre.
