TIFF 2020: David
TIFF 2020
Premiering in the first Short Cuts program at the forty-fifth edition of the Toronto International Film Festival, The Office and Silicon Valley alum Zach Woods delivers a remarkable short-form debut with David. Starring William Jackson Harper (The Good Place, Midsommar), Fred Heching (Eighth Grade, Vox Lux) and Will Ferrell, the short tells the story of a therapist (Will Ferrell) who must deal with his son’s (Fred Hechinger) persistent requests for him to go to his wrestling match as he attempts to talk to a patient of his (William Jackson Harper).
A remarkably funny short, Woods is able give the film a subtle but noticeable directorial flair, with a grain-based look that pops against its upbeat color palate. Much is to be said about the script, as well. Woods is able to balance comedy and drama in an intriguing way and, despite its brief runtime, has an extremely heartfelt conclusion.
There is also much to be said about the central performances – specifically that of Will Ferrell. Possibly his best role in years, the script gives Ferrell the leeway to explore a full emotional range: from witty banter to comedic conflict, and some dramatic moments as well. Jackson-Harper stands strong here too, as does Hechinger's chaotic performance that brilliantly contrasts Jackson-Harper’s, and even Ferrell’s, at times.
David is a well shot, funny and heartfelt short film. Delivering one of Ferrell's best performances in years, Zach Woods tragicomic nature holds its own behind the camera and will make one excited to see what he does next.