“Shazam” (short film) (2017) - Sam Gall’s Movie Review Issue #29 Gem Mint 10.0

Not to be confused with DC Comic's character "Shazam"

FULL SHORT FILM ON YOUTUBE (Runtime 5:53):

“Shazam” (2017) (short) directed by Royston Innes

“A father teaches his son about the harsh realities of being a black man in a new and inventive way.”

Starring: Christopher Mychael Watson & Roman Dior Degeddingseze

You might like this if you like: relevant stories? real stories? important stories? acting, filmmaking, black stories, racism-themed stories, superheroes, dramas, short films, Christopher Mychael Watson (starred in shows like "Jane The Virgin" & "SEAL Team", video game character Marvin Branagh in "Resident Evil 2" 2019 & "Resident Evil 3" 2020, films "Kevin Hart's Guide to Black History" 2019, "Man From Outer Space" 2017 & "Night Into Day" 2020)

I came across this short film through having the great honor of having worked with the incredible Christopher Mychael Watson. It popped up in my feed when he shared it back in 2017 and has been stuck in my heart ever since. Been thinking about it more lately and it’s sad that I am. It’s sad that this story still needs to be told. But my god, this story has it all. Its simplicity and conciseness in its message is so beautiful that it’s heartbreaking.

Christopher Mychael Watson’s performance is a home run. I felt everything he was feeling through the screen, which is something I don’t always get when watching performances and treasure when do. He brought an already powerful message so much higher than I could’ve imagined. I’ve seen this short probably 5 times now and he gets me every time right when he raises his hands. It’s one of the most touching performances.. I can’t wait to see where his career takes him.

Christopher Mychael Watson in "Shazam" (2017) (short)

The young boy played by Roman Dior Degeddingseze was a wonder to watch. Such range on a kid. I was really impressed.

The film feels so real, so uncomfortable in it’s honesty which is what I love about it. It should make you feel uncomfortable. No one should have to live that way. This short 5 minute film tells a more powerful message than most feature films and even season-long television shows do. I’m still shocked this isn’t in every award ceremony and trending #1. It’s a beautiful film that needs to be talked about more and I will continue to as long as I live.

Roman Dior Degeddingseze in "Shazam" (2017) (short)

Thank you to EVERYONE who was involved in making this film. It’s one of the greatest things I’ve ever seen. I’m just repeating myself now but it’s worth it in this case. Check it out for yourself. If it connects with you please share. Not for me. Not for my site. Don’t even reference my name. I just hope more people get a chance to see this film.

Thank you, Chris for being a part of this film and sharing it with the world when you did, it’s connected with me in more ways than I can explain.

Written by Sam Gall 07/30/20

CGC Grading: Gem Mint 10.0

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