Forgive Us Our Trespasses (2022) Short Movie Review

 

Forgive Us Our Trespasses | 2022 | 13m
Genre: Drama/Short | Country: Canadian-American
Director: Ashley Eakin | Writers: Ashley Eakin, Shawn Lovering
Cast: Knox Gibson, Hanneke Talbot, Justin Mader
IMDB: 6.5
My Rate: 8/10

The Nazis had a policy of killing people with disabilities—Peter, who has an incomplete arm, was no exception. He must make an important decision to save his life when the Nazis discover his whereabouts.

Warning:

Sensitive topic and scenes of violence

 

Synopsis:

Peter has a disability—one of his arms is not fully formed. At the time, the Nazi regime implemented a policy in which people with disabilities were to be killed. This forces Peter and his mother to be extremely cautious.

One day, the military comes to capture Peter. He runs away, leaving behind his mother, who is eventually killed as well. Peter flees to a barn where his gear—such as a prosthetic arm and a jacket—is hidden.

However, it turns out there is also a woman hiding in the barn. Peter decides to distract the soldiers so the woman won’t be found. A fight eventually ensues.

Will Peter survive the pursuit?

 

Review:

Forgive Us Our Trespasses is a film inspired by a true story about the Nazi policy toward people with disabilities. The story is not presented in an excessive way but still manages to deliver its message very clearly—evoking concern that is also felt by the viewers.

The story is concise and clear, despite the limited time and number of characters. It’s also not overly provocative.

The foundation of the story is built strongly, showing the main character and his limitations. In fact, some shots are done in extreme close-up to emphasize the central issue. The problem is also portrayed through the dialogue about how people with disabilities are treated.

The conflict begins when the military comes to Peter’s house to arrest him. A chase follows. The tension is clearly visible, culminating in an intense fight between Peter and one of the soldiers.

The resolution is carried out quite well, showing the character development of the protagonist. The main issue is not completely resolved, but the symbolism of Peter taking the soldier’s coat and walking away makes for a powerful ending. It is followed by an additional explanation about the real events that occurred during that time.

The selection of music and sound effects is done well, matching the mood of each scene. For example, when the tension rises, the tempo of the music increases accordingly. The actors’ performances are also natural and provide a perfect harmony.

Overall, this film is worth watching to broaden your understanding.

 

Memorable Scene:

Peter, who is about to hide in the barn, finds a woman who is also hiding there. He chooses to become a decoy to distract the Nazis in order to save the woman—even though he knows it could cost him his life.

This scene shows that humanity can still be felt even in life-or-death situations. However, this is not something we often witness—most people would prioritize their own survival.

 
Memorable Dialogue:

"No calculation can measure the worth of a life."

 
Ending:

Cliffhanger

 

Recommendation:

Worth to watch

(Aluna)