A Helping Hand (2012) User Reviews (2)

Elegant storytelling with a refined twist

[Arietta17 · 10/10 · 19 June 2013]

A HELPING HAND craftily explores the dark extremes of human psychology. With its complex characters and well-crafted storytelling, this short is a gem amongst modern tales. A clever combination of drama, dark comedy, and horror, there is something for everyone in this film.

Sandra Oh delivers and impeccable performance in her role as Cynthia, a lost and lonely sole who seeks the comfort of human contact. She manages to retain the warmth and humor of a woman who seems content with her life, but somewhere below is a simmer that all is awry in her world.

Michelle Kruseic plays the the duplicitous role of Donna. Her performance ranges from innocent to provocative, while seeming deranged all the same while.

Overall, the story has a uniqueness that is not easily found in modern cinema. Every scene, line, and frame derives a special meaning to the overall palate of the world that Stone and Smith have created.

A unique story of the dangers of giving a helping hand in these desperate times.

[kampmann67 · 10/10 · 18 June 2013]

A very interesting and timely short, with amazing performances by all the actors, and great direction and production values. It reminds me of a foreign film in terms of the pace and the story line. It could be an analogy to the great separation between the have and the have nots. When one of the more successful members of society attempts to help someone who is seemingly homeless, the question becomes who is the most needy. The short explores these themes in a fascinating matter, and the tone reflects the characters' situation to perfection. The shots have a beautiful look of composition, which contrasts with the inner struggles of the characters. Everyone appears to need a helping hand, but the characters who don't seem to need this help need it the most.