FILM REVIEW: “TO ERR”
“To Err,” directed by Derek Romrell, is a science fiction short film that addresses the emotions of longing and nostalgia, told through the perspective of two humanoid androids. These creations, as part of the Human Memory Project, exist 200 years after the extinction of mankind. They are assigned to tasks that include experiencing human glimpses in time, glimpses which capture settings and technology of the 1980s.
The story centers around Adam (Dave Martinez) and Lily (Cayla Berejikian), who initially review (or perhaps recall?) what it is like to be human through old video tapes and sounds. There is a clear Adam and Eve reference here. Eventually, these two beings begin to relate to what they are seeing and hearing. And despite distractions meant to keep them busy and logical, they become transfixed with wanting to experience these human emotions themselves.
Romrell, an award-winning Utah-based writer, director, and producer, creates a cohesive and sublimely beautiful piece through sensory storytelling. Every sound, every movement, every ray of light, masterfully comes together to exhibit just how vicarious and ephemeral the human experience really is. While watching this piece, one wonders - “What is the meaning of this?” And it is open for the viewer to decide. Besides, isn’t that always the existential question of human purpose and experience?
The cinematography is delicious - with masterful cinematic shots by Joseph Kitchens. There is a softness to this futuristic topic accomplished by these shots, which help to frame the dreamlike nostalgia of the characters. Production/set design is superb and takes you right back to the 80s (Angela Watters, Abigail Danielson, Zach Sawyer, and Jordan Wood). And we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the sound and music score teams, as well, which included J.R. Andrus, Brandon Ho, and Brenden Taylor (sound), as well as Jordan Roper (music score). The entire team accomplished a unique and contemplative tale that seeped into our thoughts long afterwards, and in that sense, we can say that the ‘Human Memory Project’ was a success.
For those interested in viewing, “To Err” is screening at FilmQuest later this month.
Additionally, To Err is screening at Zepsgiving - a bi-annual ZIFA screening event taking place November 10th and 11th, 2023 - at Huish Reel Theatres.
Review by: Alicia Oberle Farmer