Iota (2004) User Reviews

This is a remarkable film with echoes of the silent era.

[megabasswalkman · 10/10 · 1 September 2005]

This is a remarkable short film that has echoes of the silent era. I was really moved by the performances (the young girl, Natasha Watson in particular delivers a performance of amazing maturity), they have a real simplicity and are genuinely emotive. The overall look of the film is remarkable, the stark, haunting beach setting compliments the mood and tone of the story terrifically. The director, Simon Dennis has managed to create a sense of wonderment and mystery whilst carrying a natural humour that leads the viewer into the story. It ticks all the boxes for what should be achievable in a short film and I am sure that the film maker will be seen soon directing features if the strength and beauty of this piece is anything to go by. This is definitely a director who I will be keeping my eye on.

Amazing Short!

[Voiceof1 · 10/10 · 26 December 2004]

I loved this film. It was simply beautiful and shows what can be achieved in the short format. I saw the film at a festival and it is bar none the best short I have seen to date. I was at a a smaller fest and happened upon a shorts program. I was so taken by the piece that I would love to own it. I hope it gets some more exposure because it really should be seen. I hope to see more work from the Director, there is serious talent behind his camera, bravo. I would love to see a long form piece by this director just to get a sense of his skills with other material. Again, great work and i cannot recommend it more highly.

Beautifully Made and Haunting Short Film... Definitely Worth Checking Out

[TimeNTide · 20 October 2008]

I've seen this short on the Sundance Channel (USA) several times, and it's always a pleasure to watch again.

I don't want to say too much about the plot since I don't want to spoil anything for those who haven't seen it yet. The heart of the story is about the loving relationship between a single father and his twin daughters. However... there is another very interesting element to the story which is supernatural, though never quite slipping into horror or sci-fi, if taken literally. Or... if taken figuratively... but that's part of the beauty here... much is left to the imagination or one's interpretation.

The cinematography is gorgeous, the mostly non-verbal acting performances are wonderful, the story is interesting, sweet and yet haunting, and the quiet beautiful music sets the perfect mood.

Definitely check this short film out if you get the chance.

Visually Astounding

[Raspeir · 9/10 · 6 December 2004]

I saw this film when it was exhibited at the same festival as one of mine, and I must say I was blown away by the cinematography on this very moving and heart-warming piece. Simon Dennis expertly captures the environment around his characters and the supple warm imagery compliments the heart-warming narrative perfectly. The tale itself is very moving, portraying the intimate bond between a father and daughter united through the agony of loss. The performances, particularly by the young Natasha Watson cannot be faulted, with both actors evidently having put great effort into understanding the motives and concerns of their characters. Credit must also go to Dennis (or whoever was responsible) for achieving such an impressive level of performance from such a young actress. Overall this piece is a beautiful example of what can be achieved within a short film, both visually and through the progression of narrative. I would definitely recommend viewers experience it for themselves in order to see the elegance of this piece first hand.