Synopsis: Khari Brooks is part owner of “Club Daze” and loving his single life until he is caught in a daze of deja vu and wakes up every morning to repeat Saturday… think Groundhog Day meets How To Be a Player.

Jewels Proctor, a budding filmmaker, takes us on a journey with her short film Daze. Centered around the life of Khari Brooks, a part-owner of the vibrant “Club Daze”, Proctor’s work offers a fresh perspective on the repercussions of reliving a cycle without consequences, prompting viewers to ponder the consequences of their own actions and the lessons they learn along the way, like Khari. 

At the heart of Daze lies an intriguing premise that fuels the story’s appeal. Khari is trapped in a cycle of deja vu intertwined with the complexities of dating and personal growth. Khari’s character embodies the archetype of a successful young man navigating relationships and romantic encounters in the modern world. His past experiences, whether positive or negative, shape his interactions and pave the way for the narrative’s unfolding.

One standout aspect of Daze is the attention to some technical details, particularly in terms of lighting and wardrobe. It’s proven difficult in the past to find the correct lighting for dark-skinned actors, but Daze manages to pull it off.  I feel like Proctor’s commitment to creating a visually appealing short film is evident. The wardrobe choices and set design authenticate the characters and their environment, ensuring a seamless integration between storytelling and aesthetics.

Proctor’s ability to create a relatable and engaging story is commendable. As a viewer, the film triggered a sense of nostalgia and familiarity with personal experiences, which underlines the true power of cinema: to foster a connection between the art and the audience. Daze achieves just that, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences, actions, and choices.

One cannot help but imagine the potential for this powerful short film to be expanded into a full feature-length film. The foundation is already set with well-crafted characters and a thought-provoking premise.

The only minor detail that I believe could be tweaked is the dialogue that takes place between Khari and a young lady in the final act. The dialogue is a bit lengthy and could be trimmed down to keep the pacing and tone balanced. 

In conclusion, Daze is a noteworthy addition to the world of short films in 2023. Jewels Proctor demonstrates her storytelling prowess, effectively blending elements of repetition, personal growth, and relationship dynamics. 

Aspiring filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts alike will find Daze to be an inspiring example of the potential that lies within the short film format. Be sure to keep an eye out for Daze at your local film festivals or any platform where it may be showcased.