The Independent Film Festival Boston (IFFBoston) continues its tradition of showcasing exceptional short films from New England and beyond. This year’s festival features ten programs, including collections of narrative and documentary shorts, an Indigenous Shorts program, and a Student Shorts Showcase. Among these offerings is the Shorts Dartmouth: Narrative collection, a well-curated series of five films, all under 70 minutes, which embody both style and substance. The filmmakers behind these pieces bring a mix of genre-based storytelling, dramatic tension, and deep character exploration. Audience members will also have the chance to meet some of the creators in person during the screenings.
Ambush at St. Mary’s – Directed by Anthony Parisi
A compelling take on the Western genre, Ambush at St. Mary’s is set against the desolate backdrop of a frontier chapel. The film’s central conflict arises when two men, draped in cassocks and white collars, threaten the elderly Father Jacob’s church, aiming to seize its hidden treasure. Richard Riehle plays Father Jacob, while Luke Barnett portrays the villainous Noah. The standout performance comes from Jeremy Hoffman, whose character, Wesley, grapples with the painful legacy of his minister father. The film’s intense visuals, marked by penetrating close-ups and evocative lighting, enhance the drama, which is further heightened by its immersive sound design.
Buyback – Directed by Jared Goodman
In Buyback, Boston native Jared Goodman blends fiction with real-world tragedy, exploring the consequences of gun violence through the lens of a fictional narrative. Set in Rockland County, New York, the film follows teenager Will, played by Luca R. Stagnitta, who, upon hearing about a local gun buyback program, embarks on a scheme to profit from the exchange. Joined by friends Nikki and Alexey, Will’s plan to get rich soon spirals into something far more dangerous. The film captures the tension and youthful bravado of its characters, with a narrative that’s both gripping and thought-provoking.
Chooch – Directed by Peter Horgan
Following his success with How to Rob at the 2022 IFFBoston, Peter Horgan returns with Chooch, a sharp and humorous tale of two mobsters navigating their complicated friendship. The younger Frank (Joshua Koopman) and his older associate, Enzo (Anthony Firicano), engage in witty banter in a world of crime, comic books, and tough decisions. The film is a character-driven piece that relies heavily on nuanced performances and sharp dialogue, with the two leads displaying a chemistry that draws the audience into their tense, yet strangely endearing, dynamic.
Hustle Mode – Directed by Jeffrey Liu
Hustle Mode offers a raw, atmospheric look at poverty in New York City through the eyes of Lexi, a young woman scrapping together a living for herself and her daughter. As she navigates the streets with a garbage bag of recyclables and hustles for small cash, the film takes a deep dive into the daily struggles faced by those living on the margins. The story unfolds in a way that’s more focused on mood than plot, creating a poignant portrait of resilience and survival. Clara Barnstone’s performance as Lexi is powerful, capturing the character’s fatigue and determination in equal measure.
The Lot – Directed by Raffaele Vesco
Rounding out the Shorts Dartmouth: Narrative collection is The Lot, a fast-paced comedy about Nico, an aspiring actor juggling his day job as a used-car salesman. As Nico attempts to close a deal before heading to an important audition, the chaos of his workday escalates into a hilarious and high-stakes situation. Jesse Townes shines as the smooth-talking Nico, and the film’s precise editing and camera movements heighten the tension, making for a gripping, if comedic, finale to the collection.
The Shorts Dartmouth: Narrative program is a testament to the diverse and creative talent showcased at IFFBoston this year. These films offer compelling characters, inventive storytelling, and engaging performances, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the festival’s narrative slate. Attendees can look forward to an unforgettable experience at the Somerville Theatre on April 27 and 28.
