Inspired by the director’s own experience, Montana Mann’s Azi is a gripping and evocative short that deftly delves into the intricacies of human connection and a teenager grappling with her own identity. On a weekend away with her best friend’s family, Azi catches the eye of an older woman forming an uneasy connection between the pair and ultimately leading to a mysterious psychological game that tests their boundaries.
The way the narrative unfolds in Azi is smartly crafted with a steady build up of tension and nothing going the way the viewers might expect. The undefinable nature of the relationship at play is devilishly engrossing, you never know quite how far they may go, but you find yourself growingly transfixed by their antics and curious power plays.
Newcomer Dior Negeen Goodjohn delivers a stellar performance in the titular role, capturing the inner conflict and vulnerability of adolescence, which is complimented by Breeda Wool’s commanding and enigmatic presence as Elizabeth, the other woman. The cinematography is also beautiful, evoking a nostalgic and almost dreamlike setting.
The undefinable nature of the relationship at play is devilishly engrossing
With Azi, Mann has managed to deliver a provocative and engrossing story with layers of ambiguity and complexities. The film’s strength lies in its uncertainties, challenging the audience to discern the motivations of the characters and the underlying power dynamics at play without providing any easy answers. It’s a masterful work.
A provocative and engrossing story with layers of ambiguity and complexities
Brian Cotter
