There's much to love about writer/director Darius Shu's 23-minute Brit queer short Molly, a romantic drama centered largely around Hiroki Berrecloth's Vinnie. Vinnie's a young man who runs a rather simple launderette seemingly with not a whole lot of interruption. One day, Ryan (Frank Kauer) enters. 

There's a spark. One feels it immediately. Vinnie is a shy lad, Ryan's interest shown primarily through his frequent returns to the launderette. The two bond, a budding friendship begins to lean into romance. While Vinnie struggles to return the obvious interest, one day Connor (Aldous Ciokajlo-Squire) enters. 

Molly is a lovely short, more character-driven than narratively focused. Berrecloth gives a sublime performance as the young Vinnie, Shu complements that performance with lensing that is creative, intimate, and inspired. The film benefits from Benjamin Doherty's music and a couple other surprises to enjoy. 

Shu has noted that Molly is inspired by his own story growing up, and it's refreshing to have a tenderly told queer short explore intimacy beyond the physical and sexual realms. While Molly is a queer short, it's relatable for all with universal themes and easy to appreciate characters. The film is already proving to be popular on the indie fest circuit, and I'd take the opportunity to check it out if you get the chance. 

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic