The Confession (2010)

With their first confession looming large, two young lads - "Sam" (Lewis Howlett) and his best pal "Jacob" (Joe Eales) are quite apprehensive. They've no real need to be - it's not like they are axe-murderers or anything, but maybe that's the problem. They have done nothing, not even the slightest naughty thing. Moreover, they don't want to wear a frock either... A rehearsal - yep, let's use a bag of crisps as the communion wafers then what might they actually say when it comes down to it? Methinks a prank is in order - otherwise the priest will be bored! Into the farmer's field they go to make some mischief with the scarecrow and his plodding tractor - but yikes, does it all go tragically wrong. As the ramifications of their actions and behaviour dawn on them more, they must make some very tough choices - but will they do what is right? The second part of this drama is much darker, more tautly directed and more potent and it also showcases a pretty strong performance from the young Howlett as his character's conscience becomes increasingly troubled. Maybe just a little on the long side, but it's still quite a compelling short feature to watch, inviting us to take a view on the entire concept of priestly absolution...