Pulse is the second film in Oxygen Film’s “Odyssey” series, a collection of works that tell emotionally gripping tales about sexuality, humanity, and the struggles in between. The first film in the series, This World We Live In, surprised me with its honest depictions of realistic problems. It functioned as both a harrowing cautionary tale and a response to society’s many issues regarding sexual acceptance. I came into Pulse with high expectations, hoping that This World We Live In‘s effectiveness was not a simple fluke. Luckily, director Gage Oxley and his talented crew have once again crafted a film experience that’s riveting and remarkable.
Pulse is a very different film than This World We Live In, containing no dialogue and lasting only five minutes. For this reason, Pulse is a film that needs to be seen to be understood, as most of its emotion lies within its visual expression. The film is one continuous shot, meaning that from beginning to end, the camera never cuts away. It focuses on Will (Samuel Curry), a man who comes to terms with his sexuality and explores that journey through interpretative dance. As the film progresses, Daniel moves through an empty cathedral, scored by a hauntingly beautiful piano. Pulse uses this space to its advantage, creating entrancing visuals with simple materials.
These visuals aren’t just for show, as each visual action in Pulse is usually symbolic of something. In that way, Pulse immediately requires repeat viewings, as you begin to uncover the true meaning behind the performance. The choreography is well done and coupled with great camera movements, the performance feels fluid and natural. I commend choreographer Philip Joel and cinematographer Michael R. Houghton for their well-produced collaboration in that regard.
Pulse is both visually seductive and impressive to behold. Director Gage Oxley stuns me with his ability to tell a coherent story, get his message across, and wrap it in a beautiful package. Considering that Pulse is one continuous shot, its budget is obviously next-to-nothing, and it contains no actual dialogue, its ability to connect with the audience is an absolute achievement. As a continuation of the “Odyssey” series, Pulse continues to take us through the emotional spectrum, and awe its audience along the way.
Connect with Oxygen Film:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/oxygenfilms.
Twitter: @oxygenfilm
Instagram: @oxygenfilm
Hashtag: #PulseShortFilm
Movie Rating: 5 stars.
Movie Ratings Guide
1 Star = Unwatchable
2 Stars = Cannot Recommend
3 Stars = Great for the Fans
4 Stars = A Solid Movie
5 Stars = Must Own (DVD/Stream Download)
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