Toast (2022)

I thought after a few seconds of this short film that it was going to be a prime example of no good deed goes unpunished. Harry Walters has agreed to help out the curmudgeonly Roger Sloman with his groceries so he doesn’t have to go out during lockdown. All he ever gets is a moan - if he gets any recognition at all until, that is, the man lets slip that he misses the pub. Next thing the lad has erected a makeshift arrangement in his garden, complete with his own version of piped soul music and it would seem that perhaps there is a chance of a friendship blossoming. Or might that be talking too soon? I found this to be surprisingly engaging as this story unfolds suggesting that there is scope for both to learn from the other, if only they will open their minds a little. I can’t say I loved the conclusion, but there is a lot of thought gone into the ten minutes of cinema and both deliver well with just an hint of comedy here, too. Give it a go, it ought to make you smile.