Short Film Nominee: Sing

The Hungarian short film directed by Kristof Deak “Sing” explores the life of a young Zsofi as she transitions to her new school. Amongst the stress of the adjustment, she finds comfort in the her love of singing. This happiness is quickly denied when the choir director Miss Erika tells her to mime the music. Zsofi and her friend Liza scheme a way to expose the malicious nature of the revered teacher.

While the short film peers through the lens of the sweet, timid Zsofi, Liza has the same degree of significance in the story. Sometimes the main character isn’t always the conductor of the story. It’s not the person standing in the limelight that drives the plot, but often the people who place the spotlight on them who have anchor roles in the production. Because of the limelight’s ample advertising, we might find ourselves accrediting the center of attention such as the main actress, the highest scoring player, the wealthiest entrepreneur. With that being said, these publicized roles are not greater nor lesser than the more subtle roles; they are equal. Every element of the work forms a network with elements dependent upon one another, bringing them to their maximum potentials. As Liza helps Zsofi find her voice. Zsofi helps Liza harness her leadership skills. Besides the context of the entertainment industry, someone who brings out the best in another demonstrates the ideal friend. Although Liza is highly regarded as a vocalist and seemingly unaffected by Miss Erika’s maltreatment, she initiates the movement to bring justice to those who are afflicted. In this short film, Liza encompasses all the qualities of a good friend. Someone who takes your concerns as his or her own to attest to your best being, who seeks to understand why you are not acting yourself, who will not let you be defeated by a challenge…that’s a good friend.

Overseeing it all, the excellence was made possible by director Kristóf Deák and his team. This is why I greatly appreciate the Short Film Academy Awards; those behind camera are put in the spotlight.