Short Film Review: ‘Gillyfish’ – Healing, Connection and Reconciliation Through Others.

Is it possible to heal through someone else? Can we share so much pain with another person that our emotional and psychological wounds become intertwined?

‘Gillyfish‘, written and directed by Sarah Sellman, attempts to explore these deep and thought-provoking questions through themes of identity, self-discovery, connection, and reconciliation.

The film tells a compelling story about healing by proxy, where Gillian (played by Aoife Commons) takes on her partner Lana’s (played by Cat Coyle) identity to confront Lana’s father, David (played by Sean Donegan) who she is estranged from. What initially seems like an act of love and support for Lana slowly transforms into something much more personal for Gillian. The encounter with David becomes an unexpected outlet for Gillian to face the reality of her own struggles with past familial conflict, identity, and perhaps even her own sexuality.

“When Gillian takes on her girlfriend’s identity to confront their father, she finds a connection she didn’t expect in the strange exchange she has with him.” This logline perfectly encapsulates the film’s emotional depth, where stepping into a new identity reveals more about oneself than intended.

The film’s premise is rooted in a simple yet powerful exchange of dialogue. Lana’s words, “Why don’t you do it? You pretend to be me, confront my father. What will you say?” sound not only like a sincere request but also a convincing confidence and belief of Gillian’s ability to seek closure Lana, but perhaps for herself as well.

Aoife Commons and Cat Coyle in Gillyfish

For Gillian to even agree to this act suggests that she too is seeking closure. She has emotions to process, wounds to mend, and in this surrogate experience, she hopes to navigate her own trauma. The film expertly balances the personal and the interpersonal, showing how stepping into someone else’s shoes can sometimes bring clarity to our own struggles.

Despite being a drama, ‘Gillyfish‘ has a uniquely gripping tone that almost mirrors an intense psychological thriller. The choice of scoring and mood music plays a crucial role in this, creating a tension that lingers throughout the film. However, it isn’t just the soundtrack that elevates the film. The cinematography, lighting, and dialogue delivery all contribute to its distinctive atmosphere.

The performances are another standout element. Aoife Commons and Cat Coyle bring a raw and nuanced authenticity to their roles, making their dynamic feel real and compelling. Sean Donegan, as David, adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, subtly shifting our expectations of the father-daughter confrontation into something far more intricate. You can tell that David too is has been grappling with his past and needs that opportunity for closure.

Sarah Sellman masterfully makes the film’s 11-minute runtime feel expansive, allowing us to learn just enough about Lana and Gillian to understand their connection. It’s clear that they share deep emotional scars. Ones that could either strengthen or fracture their relationship. But the film doesn’t take us that far, leaving the resolution open-ended.

As the credits roll, you’re left wondering. What will this encounter mean for Gillian and Lana’s relationship? Will it break them apart, or will it provide them both the emotional closure they desperately seek? Can healing by proxy truly work, or does it only complicate matters further? These lingering questions make ‘Gillyfish‘ not just a film but an experience that stays with you long after it ends. I found my self wondering if there was anyone close to me that I could use as a conduit to heal my traumas.

Sean Donegan and Aoife Commons in Gillyfish

Aesthetically, the short is both visually and audibly impressive. The intense score complements the dreamy, almost surreal visuals, making the film immersive from the very first frame. It creates an emotional pull that makes it easier to connect with the characters and their story.

While 11 minutes might not feel like enough to fully unpack the film’s emotional and thematic layers, ‘Gillyfish‘ serves as an excellent proof of concept for what could be an emotionally riveting feature-length film about identity, reconciliation, and healing by proxy.

For its emotional depth, compelling performances, and unique approach to storytelling I will score this short film 4 out of 5 stars.