Wages thumbnail Javell Sheppard
There have been a multitude of brilliant movie releases in recent times—two of which have come from SXU’s own students. I’m not one to seek out student films, but these two short films exceeded all my expectations by far. I highly recommend taking the time to watch them, they’re definitely ones to remember.
“Wages,” according to Sheppard—a current senior at SXU—is an informative horror dramedy intended to be a commentary on the issues surrounding “minimum wage.” My first impression upon reading this description was that this short film would be just another boring informative student film, but I was quickly proven wrong.
From its initial scene, “Wages” has its own unique charm that’s not always seen in films like this. Sheppard’s writing shines through his comedic-yet-informative dialogue, especially in the first half of the film.
I really enjoyed how Sheppard’s dialogue utilized the research behind his topic of minimum wage. I wasn’t sure about it at first, as this type of dialogue can sound unnatural, but Sheppard does a good job of tying it in seamlessly with the rest of the story.
I was not sure how I would like the switch to horror considering the lightheartedness of the first half of the film, but I think it was executed wonderfully.
Sheppard incorporates a lot of dynamic camera work in the horror heavy scenes, creating that notorious feeling of suspense that leaves you wondering what’ll happen next.
These scenes are when I really started to like this film. The horror is not necessarily “scary” like traditional horror, but it’s very fun to watch. I found myself fully immersed at this point, and I felt excited to see where the story would go.
If I could describe the feeling, I would say the horror in “Wages” feels nostalgic, like something you’d watch on Halloween as a kid.
All in all, “Wages” is a great short film and one I think most people would love.
“Pandemic” is a short film by SXU alumnus, William (TJ) Franklin, who graduated in 2023. It is a comedy/drama commentary on the COVID-19 pandemic and how it affected college students.
I first heard of “Pandemic” through word of mouth; it was highly praised by those who I asked about it and for good reason. I absolutely loved this film and I think it’s one many could relate to.
I found myself laughing in the first few minutes of this movie—the dialogue is hilarious and very relatable. I loved the scene where Jotham (Jotham Israel) somehow “teleports” onto the group’s couch.
His dialogue felt reminiscent of the existential conversations had at the beginning of the pandemic, with many describing their preparations for the “end times.”
I loved the conversations had between the characters in this film. They bring up many important points and perspectives, especially in regards to how the pandemic affected college students.
Through these characters, Franklin gives a voice to college students in the pandemic, something I think is still important to discuss to this day.
One scene that stuck with me was when Maya (Angela Baynes) spoke about potentially facing homelessness due to the campus’ closure.
Personally, I could find myself relating to their worries, though mine differed as I was in high school during quarantine. It makes you appreciate the fact that as current SXU students, we get to experience campus life to its fullest.
My favorite part of this film is its hilariously endearing ending, one I think needs to be watched first to fully understand why. I think it was a perfect ending to a wonderful film.
“Pandemic” is certainly going in a list of my favorite films, and I truly believe that it belongs in yours as well.
When looking for films to watch, don’t look past student films. It’s a lesson I learned whilst writing this article, and something I plan to keep in mind in the future.
There are great movies everywhere, it’s only a matter of finding them.
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