Virgil (Frederick J. Todd) wants to be a writer, and he’s willing to sacrifice everything to make that happen. However, when his stuffy, challenging professor, Richard Leyman (Timothy J. Cox) refuses even to read his work, Virgil must find new ways to ensure that his dreams come true. Sisyphus Unbound is Virgil’s journey toward success, hurdling the obstacles that exist before him. Will he find success, or will those challenges destroy him?
Simplicity is what drives Sisyphus Unbound forward. Using a series of situations that resonate with viewers, that happen all the time, and that just make sense, the film is able to appeal to those viewers, able to express to them sentiments of anxiety and passion that endures the entirety of the film. Every second of the film feels real, it feels like we’ve all been there at some point throughout our lives, and by creating something so honest and real, viewers are able to step into Virgil’s shoes and appreciate the film as a whole through him.
While the film itself is quite simple and straightforward, the title is quite the opposite–and that creates a beautiful juxtaposition (and interestingly enough it helps to strengthen the narrative). In one of William Shakespeare’s many brilliant moments he asked “What’s in a name?” To a degree that quote plays a role in Sisyphus Unbound, as the title has significant meaning and plays a prominent role in the short film. Again, the story itself is simple–but the title expresses this idea of greatness as it refers to Greek mythology and the idea that somehow the film itself is connected to the gods and what they represent (and giving the protagonist the name Virgil helps to solidify this connection). While we see ourselves in these everyday struggles, we are reminded of the paramount role that we play in this world, of how important we are, and that our vision and our dreams matter–regardless of what others say.
Todd is brilliant. He’s often found reacting to what everyone else on screen does, and I imagine that having to respond rather than be the aggressor in these situations is far more challenging than many might expect. Sisyphus Unbound is driven not by Richard’s aggressive personality, but rather by the reservation of Virgil that plays opposite him. His lack of eye contact, his ability to create discomfort, and his overall demeanor drives this film. Furthermore, he looks the role. He looks gentle and kind, but more than capable of stepping up to the plate when something is on the line–and he plays this role perfectly.
The placement of Cox plays a role in how Virgil is perceived, however–and the cinematic ventures of Writer-Director Ryan Fleming and Director of Photography Ashtin Francis bring these characters to life with vigor. Cox always appears to be in a place of authority, in a place where he is in control–and that seems to come from the direction of Fleming and the camera work of Francis.
Sisyphus Unbound is a powerful narrative that plays with the ideas of simplicity and the mundane. It’s a story that we can all understand and appreciate–and it elevates it to a level that allows us to see our own worth and potential. Driven forward by Todd’s stellar performance, the direction of Fleming, and Francis’ ability to capture the greatness of Cox, Sisyphus Unbound reaches audiences often, giving them a lot to think about, and allowing them to see the possibilities that lie before them.
Written & Directed by Ryan Fleming.
Starring Frederick J. Todd, Timothy J. Cox, & Emerson Adams.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐½/10
