Paralysis (2023) – Drama Short Film by Maceo Tendaji – Review – Short Films Matter
In Maceo Tendaji’s gripping short drama film ‘Paralysis’, the viewer is thrust into the raw, unsettling reality of racial injustice. Black Chakra’s portrayal of Dwayne, an innocent young black man, who becomes the target of an unfounded and violent arrest by a white police officer (Nate Nelson), lays bare the visceral, gut-wrenching impact of systemic racism. Dwayne’s encounter is a stark reminder of the countless similar tragedies that echo through black communities.
“Paralysis is a Short Drama Film by Maceo Tendaji. With powerful poetry, this drama film exposes the harrowing and hard-hitting reality of racial injustice.. We review the latest independent short films from across the globe. Submit your short film today to be featured.”
The film’s heartbeat, however, lies in its poignant divergence into poetic expression. As Dwayne’s neighbors bear witness to his suffering, they transform their collective pain into a symphony of resilience and defiance through deeply moving verses. Performances by Akilah Divine, Ephraim Nehemiah, and Analysis The Poet elevate the narrative to a higher plane, making the viewer feel every syllable of their anguish and hope. Their words cut through the silence left by the injustice, serving as a powerful testament to the strength and solidarity of the black community.
David I. Sloan’s cinematography complements this emotional journey with precision. His lens captures the intimate, almost suffocating tension of the moment, yet finds beauty in the resilience of those who stand in solidarity against oppression. The technical execution, from the careful framing, sound, and editing, is immaculate.
‘Paralysis’ is a call to conscience, a mirror reflecting society’s failings. Its tragic twist is a brutal reminder of the stakes in this ongoing struggle. The performances are not just seen; they are felt, resonating deeply. Tendaji has crafted a short film that is tense and gripping, a masterclass in storytelling that demands to be seen. It’s a difficult watch, but an essential one, shedding light on the harsh realities of police brutality while empowering voices that refuse to be silenced.
Awards
Best Feature Short
– Hip-Hop Film Festival
Best Narrative Short Film
– DC Black Film Festival
Best Artistic Short Film
– Las Vegas Black Film Festival
Best Dramatic Short Film
– Baltimore Next Media Webfest
Best Director (Short Film)
– Baltimore Next Media Webfest
1st Place Audience Award
– Born in Baltimore Film Festival
3rd Place Judge’s Award
– Born in Baltimore Film Festival
Best Drama
– Georgia Shorts Film Festival
While also screening at George Washington University, Morgan State University, the Maryland Institute College of Art, and the historic Senator Theatre.
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“Emotional, realistic, eye-opening, well shot, directed, sound actors! I give it a 5 star!.”
– Lynaia Jordan, Audience Member
“Completely blown away by the message, the creativity, the collaboration.”
– Ephraim Fields, Audience Member
“It was nothing short of amazing! I appreciated the shift in perspective this film provokes while highlighting the issue of police brutality against BIPOC.”
– Zayaan Cole, Audience Member
Synopsis
College student, DWAYNE PIERCE is home for Thanksgiving break. After playing video games with his younger brother, RICO PIERCE, he takes a trip to the corner store to buy some snacks. A simple stroll down the block turns into a nightmare when Officer, NATE O’CONNOR, stops and frisks him. As the altercation escalates, Dwayne finds himself in handcuffs and fighting for survival. Residents yell at the officer, pleading for him to have mercy but a small group of bystanders are frozen in time. As these paralyzed witnesses internalize their thoughts, their consciousness becomes one. The poetic words of their psyches swell to a boiling point, tensions rise, and Dwayne’s breath descends as he struggles to fight for his life.
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Maceo “Tendaji” Lester – he/him pronouns – is a filmmaker based in Baltimore, MD. His work ranges from music videos, narrative film, documentaries and wedding videography. Lester received his BA in Mass Communications at Virginia State University and his MFA in Film from the Maryland Institute Colle
Director, Maceo Tendaji speaks about trauma and mental health. A very prevalent subject matter in the film.
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Donna Lawrence
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Louis Aguilar
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