Short Review: TransVile (2024) by Martin W. Payne


Does the mirror reflect reality or is it a window into the fears of the observer? When bullying becomes too much, what can Alice do?

This was a solid and generally enjoyable short. With the simplistic premise allowing it to essentially become a one-location set piece for the interaction between the lead and the mirror they’re directing their anger toward, the dialogue manages to convey the plight of the situation so effectively that it’s effortless to gain an idea and understanding of the situation just through that alone. The physical beat, from the body language to the removal of their clothing and the more vicious and frantic commentary signals something about to take place. This is one of the best swerves in the entire piece, as while everything in the entire segment up until this point makes the viewer completely adamant something particular will go down, it’s the complete opposite that takes place instead, giving this a shocking and wholly surprising ending. The whole idea of acceptance and unconditional love is touched on very strongly with this ending and ties everything together quite nicely, and with the final segments of the voyeur looking on hoping to be explained in the completed project makes for a great time overall.

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