SHORT FILM REVIEW: THE PEARL COMB, WRITTEN/DIRECTED BY ALI COOK
In a captivating twist on traditional folklore, The Pearl Comb, a short film crafted by Ali Cook, immerses viewers in a world of mystery and intrigue within its 20-minute runtime. Set against the stunning backdrop of Cornwall in 1893, the narrative revolves around Betty Lutey (portrayed by the exquisite Beatie Edney), a resilient fisherwoman who beckons Gregory Lutey (played by Cook himself), a skeptical doctor, to investigate a purported "miracle cure" for a child suffering from tuberculosis.
H2: A Tale of Skepticism and Enchantment
The plot thickens as Betty recounts a tale of her husband’s encounter with a mermaid—a mythical creature who allegedly bestowed upon him the ability to heal. As Betty weaves her story, the line between reality and folklore blurs, leaving viewers to ponder the veracity of her claims. Is she merely masking her unauthorized medical practice with tales of wonder, or is there something more profound at play?
H3: Stellar Cast and Characters
The Pearl Comb boasts a talented ensemble, including:
- Beatie Edney as Betty Lutey, known for her role in Poldark.
- Simon Armstrong as her husband, Lutey, recognized from Game of Thrones.
- Clara Paget as The Mermaid, who has captivated audiences in Black Sails.
- Ali Cook as Gregory Lutey, the doctor at the center of this mysterious tale.
This impressive cast brings depth and complexity to their roles, allowing viewers to connect emotionally within the film’s brief format.
H2: Masterful Cinematography and Soundscape
The film’s visual narrative is enriched by Dave Miller’s stunning cinematography, which breathes life into the bleak yet beautiful Cornish landscape. The film’s color grading—imbued with a lightly washed-out blue—culminates in an ethereal aesthetic that perfectly complements the haunting folklore.
Moreover, the sound design elevates the experience. From the subtle ticking of a clock to the haunting siren song of the mermaid, every auditory element serves to deepen the viewer’s immersion into this otherworldly tale. The atmospheric soundtrack, crafted by CLARK, enhances the film’s overall haunting quality, making each moment resonate long after the final credits roll.
H3: Themes of Gender and Folklore
At its core, The Pearl Comb explores themes of gender roles and the perception of women in the medical field. Gregory’s skepticism isn’t just about magic and mystery—it’s rooted in his views about a woman’s place in society. Betty’s unwavering strength challenges these outdated notions, presenting a narrative that prompts viewers to reflect on both historical and ongoing gender dynamics.
H4: An Experience Worth Watching
In just 20 minutes, The Pearl Comb transcends conventional storytelling, proving that impactful cinema doesn’t require lengthy runtimes or massive budgets. The film masterfully blends reality with folklore, engaging the audience with its rich storytelling and stellar performances.
H2: Where to Watch
The Pearl Comb is set to be showcased at the Cleveland International Film Festival, where viewers can catch it online from April 6-13. Purchase your online stream here.
H3: Further Exploration
For cinephiles enchanted by mermaid lore, a must-listen is the episode of the BBC Radio 4 series Screenshot, which delves deeper into the portrayal of mermaids in film. This exploration offers further insight into the storytelling tapestry woven by these mythical beings.
Closing Thoughts
In an age where storytelling often feels overshadowed by spectacle, The Pearl Comb is a refreshing reminder of the power of craftsmanship in film. Whether you lean towards fantasy or horror, this short offers a compelling tale that holds your attention with every flick of the mermaid’s comb. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this well-crafted film, as it surely promises to linger in your thoughts long after viewing.
Follow @thepearlcombfilm on Instagram for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses!
Review by Paul F Cook
Stay connected with all new content from Joyzine through our social media channels, and embark on a journey into the world of film and storytelling.
