JAM Productions' latest short film, Is This the Bed We Lie In?, directed by Joseph McGovern, delves into the raw and intimate complexities of relationships and personal desire. The story focuses on a pivotal conversation between Jennifer, portrayed by Constance Reshey, and her husband, Robert, played by Joel Blanco. At its core, the film is a deeply emotional exploration of a woman revealing her desire to be with another woman and the impact of this admission on her relationship.
Is This the Bed We Lie In? is notable for its simplicity. The film is set in a single scene, but the emotional weight carried by the dialogue and performances keeps the viewer engaged. Constance Reshey’s portrayal of Jennifer is nuanced and powerful, as she navigates a vulnerable confession. Joel Blanco matches her intensity, conveying Robert’s complex mix of confusion, hurt, and empathy. Their chemistry is understated yet palpable, grounding the film's more intimate moments.
While the short runtime limits the film’s ability to dive too deeply into the aftermath of Jennifer’s revelation, the contained nature of the film works in its favor. Rather than focusing on resolution, McGovern’s direction allows the conversation to breathe, leaving audiences with a lingering sense of reflection.
One of the most impressive aspects of Is This the Bed We Lie In? is the sheer effort poured into post-production. McGovern spent five years painstakingly rotoscoping over 100,000 frames to perfect the film’s visual consistency, particularly in skin tone correction. This level of dedication is rare, especially for a short film, and it shows in the finished product. The color grading is meticulous, creating a clean, polished aesthetic that enhances the emotional tone of the film without overshadowing the performances.
The audio work, helmed by sound designer Matthew Amadio, is another highlight. The dialogue is crisp and clear, with a subtle background ambiance that never distracts from the characters' emotional exchange. The score is minimal but effective, adding an extra layer of depth to the film’s already poignant atmosphere.
There are a few minor hiccups in the film, such as some awkward cuts that slightly disrupt the flow. However, these are small blemishes in an otherwise smooth production. Given McGovern’s heavy involvement in nearly every aspect of the film—from directing and editing to visual effects and color correction—it's clear that his vision guided every frame of this project.
For a film that is so deeply personal, both in subject matter and production, Is This the Bed We Lie In? feels like a labor of love. McGovern’s commitment to the film’s look and feel, combined with strong performances from Reshey and Blanco, makes it a compelling piece of short cinema.
Is This the Bed We Lie In? is a relatable and emotionally resonant short that speaks to anyone who has experienced the complexities of desire within a committed relationship. The film succeeds not only due to its heartfelt performances but also due to the meticulous technical work that went into its production. While it may not be without its flaws, the film is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, particularly Joseph McGovern, whose tireless effort in post-production paid off.
The film is set to begin its festival run in January 2025, and it will be exciting to see how audiences and critics respond to this thoughtful and visually polished work. Is This the Bed We Lie In? leaves a lasting impression and hints at the potential for more expansive stories from the talented team behind it.
Jessie Hobson