The storyline follows Elizabeth Martin (Ruth Smith) who, without any friends or family members to readily turn to, has valued the bond with her pet dog, Adam, above all else. This seemingly inseparable bond is tested as Adam's life draws closer to the end, with his deteriorating health serving as an indicator. Although it is not a reality Elizabeth wishes to accept, seeking out every veterinarian she can to improve Adam's condition, she ultimately learns that all good things must come to an end.
This short film moves at a rapid pace, but the story develops rather well, choosing key story beats and meandering very little. There is some build-up to the primary conflict of the film that we see in the opening montages, so the plot efficiently allows us to empathize with Elizabeth when the emotional story beats roll around. The cinematography is pretty fundamental, but in a positive sense, as it allows the film to capture the essence of day-to-day life and properly bases it in the real world. This can be felt particularly when watching the montages, in which a phone recording of Adam is included along with traditional horizontal shots. Ruth Smith's portrayal of Elizabeth feels so lively and refreshing, and the viewer really gets the sense that she's an actual person. While she comes across as overly eccentric, this characterization masterfully plays into her underdeveloped social skills due to the isolation she has experienced throughout the years, and helps to emphasize how Adam brings out the best in her. My favorite part is the opening montage with shots of Elizabeth and Adam together. You really see what a strong connection the two of them have with each other, which adds emotional weight when the main conflict of the film crops up.
The film's message is that memories can keep friendships alive.
I give Adam 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. By Christian C., KIDS FIRST!
The storyline follows Elizabeth Martin (Ruth Smith) who, without any friends or family members to readily turn to, has valued the bond with her pet dog, Adam, above all else. This seemingly inseparable bond is tested as Adam's life draws closer to the end, with his deteriorating health serving as an indicator. Although it is not a reality Elizabeth wishes to accept, seeking out every veterinarian she can to improve Adam's condition, she ultimately learns that all good things must come to an end.
This short film moves at a rapid pace, but the story develops rather well, choosing key story beats and meandering very little. There is some build-up to the primary conflict of the film that we see in the opening montages, so the plot efficiently allows us to empathize with Elizabeth when the emotional story beats roll around. The cinematography is pretty fundamental, but in a positive sense, as it allows the film to capture the essence of day-to-day life and properly bases it in the real world. This can be felt particularly when watching the montages, in which a phone recording of Adam is included along with traditional horizontal shots. Ruth Smith's portrayal of Elizabeth feels so lively and refreshing, and the viewer really gets the sense that she's an actual person. While she comes across as overly eccentric, this characterization masterfully plays into her underdeveloped social skills due to the isolation she has experienced throughout the years, and helps to emphasize how Adam brings out the best in her. My favorite part is the opening montage with shots of Elizabeth and Adam together. You really see what a strong connection the two of them have with each other, which adds emotional weight when the main conflict of the film crops up.
The film's message is that memories can keep friendships alive.
I give Adam 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. By Christian C., KIDS FIRST!
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