One of the very specific things I feel Quentin Delacourt’s short film IMPATIENT is about is admitting yourself to a psych ward as an upper-middle-class individual who perhaps doesn’t have it as bad as other inpatients, and the guilt and social awkwardness that comes along with that. Having experienced this phenomenon myself, it felt very realistic and true to life. The performances are excellent, quirky without being too over-the-top, and the relationships and chemistry between the female patients telling their stories are warm and relatable, giving off almost an “Orange Is The New Black” vibe.
There is a lot packed into this 30-minute short and I’d love to see it developed into either a TV series or a feature film. I felt like I knew every one of the characters a little by the end, and could have followed their story further. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be institutionalized, this is a realistic and respectful take on it. It’s often boring and mundane, punctuated by disturbing outbursts and little moments of peace like staring out the window or getting your favorite piece of fruit at mealtime or bonding with some of the other patients. It turns out that mental illness cuts through social class and life circumstances to forge ties between the unlikeliest of people.
You can watch Quentin Delacourt’s short film IMPATIENT for FREE in Short Films Block No. 4, live now until 11/3!
https://watch.eventive.org/mentalfilmness2024/play/67020e1b7520fd00560960a7/66f084e552ae2f003357ef60
