This Modern Man Is Beat (2015) User Reviews

Intriguing, but room for improvement + expansion

[vdavis-21162 · 6/10 · 16 February 2024]

This Modern Man is Beat is a dramatic short film featuring professional cinematography and visuals. The narrative was intriguing, with a shocking plot twist at the end. I did anticipate the plot twist correctly within the first few minutes of the film, but was satisfied with the narrative, nonetheless. I do feel as if some of the dialogue and pauses between scenes were a tad awkward or artificial - the main character, Habib bin Habin al Fulan, often spoke too little or too long. Upon exiting the motel in the first half of the movie, the camerawork showed several angles to view Habib and his surroundings with, including a dog laying on the other side of the road. The lengthy shots suggested something significant or dramatic would occur, perhaps with the dog or the area Habib was in, but nothing of note happened besides the transition to the next location. The story itself was compelling, though it lacked the backstory that I felt was necessary to truly appreciate the film. Overall, I would rate this as a quality film with a lot of room for an expanded story. Much potential for a longer, more intricate adaptation.

Engrossing Visual Odyssey: A Critique of 'This Modern Man Is Beat'

[mohammadalirahman · 8/10 · 5 April 2024]

"Exploring contemporary manhood and profound existential doubts, 'This Modern Man Is Beat' offers a gripping story. Its starkly minimalist style coupled with evocative filmmaking fashion an eerie environment for the main character's reflective quest. Characters navigate their identities, feelings of isolation, and outside pressures in a highly realistic manner. Guided by Director Alex Merkin's command, it weaves together insightful narratives that linger long after viewing end credits roll up on screen.

In its short duration run-time spans out enough to allow viewers space to delve into themes around our existence and self-awareness journey."

Absolutely captivating.

[adamdibspam · 8/10 · 23 September 2023]

"This Modern Man Is Beat" is an interesting short film that investigates the topics of cultural character, societal bias, and personal recovery. Coordinated by Alex Merkin, this film takes watchers on an excursion through the duration of its protagonist, Habib bin Habib al Fulan, as he explores a world loaded up with cultural disarray and mistaken decisions.

The film's solidarity lies in its capacity to convey a mind boggling story in a concise and significant manner. In a short runtime, it manages to dig into the inward contentions and battles of its primary person, Habib, as he wrestles with his cultural legacy, personal decisions, and the impression of people around him. The narrating is both connecting with and intriguing, welcoming watchers to consider their own predispositions and previously established inclinations.

The performances in "This Modern Man Is Beat" are admirable, especially the portrayal of Habib by the lead entertainer. His emotional excursion and change are persuading and reverberate with the crowd. The film successfully catches the pressure and dissatisfaction that can arise when one's character is continually addressed or misunderstood.

Great suspenseful film

[kevingomez-99964 · 10/10 · 7 December 2022]

This Modern Man Is Beat, a phenomenal short film with a very good unexpected turn of events. It had stunningly beautiful and colorful scenes. The film kept me tense the whole way through. Wondering what had gotten Habib in such a depressed mood. The small hints and details throughout specific scenes not giving you the whole picture but slowly leading you to to make your own assumption of the situation. The mains characters quick development of emotions towards the end was very well curated, it had really left you with a lot to think about. I would love to watch it again and recommend this film to everyone.

Awesome Short Film

[alxandrasantana · 10/10 · 22 July 2023]

The greatness of this film lies more in what is intimated than in what is presented. On the surface, the plot of the movie seems relatively simple: a man goes to a pawn shop to sell his guitar. However, the backstory that is only alluded to and not even seen is incredible. I've never seen a movie use negative space so effectively. The narrative is presented in little fragments, leaving the remaining details to your imagination. It began by striking the person with the appropriate emotions. How effectively the primary character was able to convey each feeling. He conveys his sorrow over his wife's memories in a way that also conveys his feeling that there is a slim chance that things will return to the way they were. The small amount of joy he experienced upon learning that he was able to sell his guitar for a little bit more money. He started to feel the weight of what had transpired, the desperation he had experienced upon realizing the police were going to arrest him.

Great watch

[lauren-95298 · 7/10 · 29 November 2023]

The short film "This modern man is beat" is a riveting short film produced and written by David Schroeder. From the amazing actors, to the intense cinematography, and engrossing music, this film keeps you entertained throughout the whole film. The story of a man trying to navigate himself in todays discriminatory society. The film shows a mans experiences while dealing with his personal relationships, such as that with his wife, and evaluating his personal life decisions. We watch as this foreign mans love for America is put to the test when it feels as though America may be against him. It is a feeling many can relate to and therefore creating a very touching story.

Thought-Provoking Film

[valdezrignak · 4/10 · 10 April 2024]

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: "This Modern Man Is Beat" is a captivating exploration of identity and cultural assimilation. The film follows the journey of a Muslim man navigating the unfamiliar terrain of beatnik culture. Through beautifully crafted scenes and genuine performances, it delves into the complexities of personal and cultural identity. While some parts of the narrative may feel disjointed, the overarching themes of belonging and authenticity resonate deeply. The cinematography adds depth to the storytelling, capturing the clash between tradition and modernity with striking visuals. Overall, "This Modern Man Is Beat" offers an engaging and thought-provoking cinematic experience that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.

beautifully sorrowful

[alyonatkachuk · 9/10 · 1 December 2023]

I could not take my eyes of the scenery it was very pleasing to watch. The short film did a very beautiful job at expressing great emotions of strong anger ,stress, guilt and love. The deep affection and compassion he showed/said for his wife in the beginning slowly turned mixed into with hatred and toxicity. Struggling to provide for his wife, she turns emotionally/physically abusive. Turning into a sad unexpected ending. In his delusion believing he is still in love. He struggled to be a better person knowing the weight of regret on his back from his morally wrong actions. After watching this short film it leaves you feeling somewhat sorrowful.

It's a Solid Shortfilm

[ul3vm · 6/10 · 10 February 2024]

I can see a lot of thought and effort went into creating this film. All the actors did great. It has some nice cinematic shots, my favorite one actually being used as the cover. At the same time, the dialogue is telling not showing. One example is the long drawn-out scene of his wife being still on the bed while Habib talks to himself. It has an abrupt tone shift from "Can you say something? Are you going to stay in bed all day?" to "You don't believe me but it's okay cause I was lying." It feels drastic because nothing happened in those 30 seconds. Unprompted, Habib overly narrates to the audience and both men at the pawn shop. His background and ethnicity give depth to the character but within the film itself, it's awkwardly stated and adds nothing. The events between Habib and his wife would be more impactful to the audience if you cut to flashbacks to hear and see what happened in real-time instead of Habib retelling it.

Guilt In This Modern Man Is Beat

[douglasperlajose · 5/10 · 30 October 2023]

"This Modern Man Is Beat" tells the story of a troubled, guilt ridden man. It is a simple yet compelling story, though it may feel cliche, its storytelling is done wonderfully so, to the point where it does not feel as just a simple retelling of an exhausted cliche. The story revolves entirely around the protagonist, and for such a short film, it makes sense. All the elements of the story are very well done and introduced, it wraps everything up nicely. I personally really enjoyed how the character's (Habib) guilt plays a huge role in the film, as it's arguably the reason the film even happens to begin with. He murders his wife, which admittedly, was more predictable than rain in a desert, but the way it affects him, feels incredibly human. He's not some psycho mastermind, just a man, and as all men do, he has flaws and a conscience, and morals, and all those elements which makes us human. Naturally, the murder was an accident, and he goes on to cope by basically living in denial, which is very well portrayed up to the point where it boils up, eating him alive, and he confesses his sin to a store clerk. Very nice film, and for like 15 minutes of actual storytelling, it's worth the watch.

This Modern Man Is Beat

[cclizarazu · 9/10 · 20 November 2023]

This short film is filled with suspense and many emotions that entertains the viewers from beginning to end and grasps their attention. I enjoyed this film because every detail adds to the story and the more you play close attention the more you discover and understand the depth in this movie. The storyline provides enough information, yet leaves the viewers wanting more. The ending was my favorite part due to the open ending, it had me thinking about the film frequently trying to guess which ending was the "right" one. Although it is only 17 minutes, it still is a must watch and I will recommend to friends and family.

"An impression of poetry in motion for all generations"

[cloydinmedina · 5/10 · 9 December 2020]

This is great short film created by an amazing effort of a small talented group of professional actors and great developing crew back in 2015. The hypnotic film under 17 minutes long will have you on the edge of your seat. The film is full sounds and profound music, with every eye-catching color and romantic scenes completely sequestrated all the senses. it is easy to get lost into the storyline and get your mind blown away with the tragic emotional twist. Astonishing performance; The holistic story of a man broken man living in a world divided by cultural differences and confusion. Habib bin Habib al Fulan, (Jordi Villasuso) the submissive loving and dedicated husband whose sole purpose in his life was to cherish his wife (Sheena Colette). Fierce warrior cast from the Americas the antagonist of the story. The great dark secret that Habib and his wife share while sharing his state of denial. Turmoil and the struggle to reach out beyond the heartbreak and enormous grief in his heart. All that Habib could hope for was an attempt to reconcile his demons and return with his beloved wife. Longing to share one more moment with his beloved one. Habib attempting to pawns his guitar for fist-full of dollars, with the endeavor of a fresh start. The money would catapult new hopes and dreams for the young couple, together again. This is a great film that must be watch over and over, new twist along this great performance of splendid actors and the amazing direction of Prof. David Schroeder. The unique style of cinematography can only be contemplated as masterpiece amongst many. Congratulation to the Team for executing this fantastic film and creating this powerful impression of poetry in motion for all generations.

Reconcile Vs Acceptance

[nathaliebarrios-55055 · 9/10 · 30 November 2023]

I have never seen a breath taking short film like " This Modern Man is Beat." At first i was a bit lost but that made me rewatch it again, which made more sense as I rewatched. I loved its format, the way they included more scenery than dialogue. The actor who played Habib, did an amazing job, expressing, and getting into character to develop his grief and trying to make his way out of his beaten life. The flashbacks made it more interesting for me because it made me questionable. The tension between Habib and his wife was something unreal, his wife was abusive towards him, because couldn't provide for her. Habib struggled to be a better person but the tragic ending was not expected. It all made sense at the end when Habib expressed himself, bringing back what was shown at the beginning. If you are looking forward in seeing a short film, I recommend "This Modern Man is Beat' which will leave you asking for more.

A great watch.

[mcalderin-28424 · 9/10 · 14 February 2024]

The Modern Man is Beat is a captivating story, with amazing visuals. I don't know exactly how to describe it, but the story feels larger than what's portrayed. This feeling is especially present at the end, when the twist is revealed. I also like how it ends without actually ending. The suspense at the end, just to be cut by the credits is something that just leaves me wanting more. It also leaves the ending up to interpretation, though I could imagine that the creator has his own idea of an ending beyond what's shown.

The shortness of the movie is also something I appreciate, because not everyone have 1, 2, or sometimes 3 hours to sit and watch feature length film. The shortness of 17 minutes allows more people with less time to watch and enjoy.

Review and Critique

[diegocano-71840 · 5/10 · 5 April 2024]

This movie doesn't do much to steer far from your run of the mill thriller,. It has solid ideas presented and for the most part is actually well paced. For being a short film however, it could've honestly used some its time building on its characters, particularly the protagonist and/or his wife. I think if either of those characters had given me more material to care about them, all of the plots twists and structures could've landed harder. The short film excels with its acting and cinematography and those aspects I feel are the film's greatest strengths. The symbolisms in its cinematic style are also nice in its subtlety. Though the montages and muted dialogue scenes in the flashbacks I believe can be a weakness. I understand showing and not telling but sometimes these interactions can work better to serve its characters instead of appearing only as glimpses. However, for where the scenes are placed it contrasts well to the idealized daydreams he reaches for in denial. So far that lack of development and how predictable some of the story beats are, are what happen to make the film ordinary. I feel the film at best is a decent viewing if there is nothing else to watch; this film probably would work a lot better if it was a feature. With how short this film is though it should've focused on making its characters more interesting, the background info on Habib could've gone somewhere but it ultimately was just exposition. One thing that I strongly feel the film in its current state suffers from and can do without is Habib's depiction as a half Palestinian man, I can get behind him being El Salvadoran to bring a job opportunity but it does nothing for his character being an Arab. I bring this up because in a post 9/11 world, this portrayal of Arab people in villainous/violent roles is just a reflection of how wrongly perceived they are in real life. It may have not been the films' intentions but this aspect serves to reinforce western fears of "the untrustworthy middle eastern man" stereotype. If the film wanted to center around him being foreign, it can do that, but here it just feels like throw away information and feels poorly handled.

A Deep Film Of Acceptance / Christopher Suarez

[chrissuarez-86362 · 10/10 · 16 February 2024]

This Modern Man Is Beat is a very telling short film that shows the experience of someone dealing with an existential crisis, the character played by Jordi Vilasuso. The film does an outstanding job of exploring the character's struggles between himself, his wife, and the guitar. Showing all the connections that there are between all three and showing the turmoil that grows through the movie. The movies cinematography is also very good showing the director's strong ability to show their movie in a very eerie but also in bright way. Overall this movie was very well thought out exploring the inner struggle of the main character but also showing him his true nature and him discovering himself.

The intrigue behind: This Modern Man Is Beat - Movie

[frances-72126 · 10/10 · 22 November 2023]

This movie kept me on my toes, and the ending was the biggest surprise. The movie did an amazing job of portraying what being with someone with substance abuse and depression is like. I think that the intrigue of the lighting, combined with the tense music is what kept me on my toes, because you didn't know what to expect next. The team who put this together did a phenomenal job at brining together all the different aspects that make a great movie. Everything that make an ominous movie the best it can be can be found in this film. I enjoyed how we got some flashbacks of what was once their relationship and how slowly it dissolved.

A Short Masterpiece

[kxsxnyv · 10/10 · 4 April 2024]

This short film has beautiful cinematography, along with addictive writing. These two elements blend seamlessly, in a way that easily captures the viewer's attention. The plot, its twist, characters, and settings, are unlike any other short film I can think of. The colors of the film add the perfect atmosphere for the story. I could easily see. This even being a successful, feature length film in the future. I throughly enjoyed my experience while watching this short film. I would highly recommend this film as it only requires about 20 minutes, or so, of your time. It will not disappoint!!!!!!

A heart breaking movie

[pinarinsel · 10/10 · 1 December 2023]

This movie was so said because the guy was clearly in love and it seemed as though his wife was also in love. The marriage looked so perfect but it did a complete turnaround when it showed the truth of the marriage and just how much pressure and suffering Habib was going through. It was even darker when the crime was committed and ironiclly he was not freed. He only became free when he released all his anger and emotional sufferenig by confessing to the shop keepers who call the cops. But in many ways he has been able to forgive him self and has been able to finally find peace with his soul which is important.

A Captivating Journey Through Emotional Turmoil

[beyanidoreliennoel · 8/10 · 28 March 2024]

"This Modern Man Is Beat" unbelievably dives into the enthusiastic complexities of its protagonist's travel through turmoil and existential emergency. Through extraordinary exhibitions and reminiscent imagery, the film welcomes watchers to reflect on subjects of misfortune, lament, and the journey for meaning. Whereas not a routine crowd-pleaser, its thought-provoking narrating and emotive profundity make it fundamental seeing for those looking for a cinematic encounter that reverberates on a significant passionate level, displaying the control of free cinema to incite thought and blend the soul.

I did not expect that ending!

[tonkama-85140 · 9/10 · 19 November 2023]

This short film had an amazing and not expected ending, the way it was shot, the way they portrayed the story was perfect considering it had a back and forth of the present and the past and usually I don't find a lot of films that portrays it that well. I was able to see how the main character was lost and confused of his life but didn't understand why until the end, which was so good and I didn't imagine it would be like that. Now, the actors! Such a great performance. I could feel their emotions while watching the film. It was such a confusing and captivating film! I 100% recommend watching the film.

Yasan Guerra

[yasanguerra · 10/10 · 13 April 2021]

This movie is filled with many subtle details that portray of sin and redemption and show the protagonist is going through the stages of grief through the entire film in a way that doesn't tell the audience flat out. The film also hints and foreshadows the ending in a very subtle and clever way.

Love it!

[kdsbmmxbgj · 10/10 · 6 April 2024]

This Modern Man is a Beast" is a fascinating movie that makes you think about who we are and how we fit into society. It follows the story of a main character who's on a journey to figure things out. The film has great visuals and music that draw you in. The actors do a fantastic job, making you feel like you're right there with them.

What's cool about this movie is that it challenges the way we usually see things. It makes you wonder about the labels and categories we use to understand the world. Overall, "This Modern Man is a Beast" is a movie that makes you think and feel, and it's definitely worth watching if you're into thought-provoking stories.

A Unique and Impressive Film

[gabrielcalderas · 10/10 · 2 November 2023]

This short film is unique and the storyline is perfect. Despite of its short duration, this film can make you confused, hopeful, or even sad in just 16 minutes of film. The story is really interesting to analyze because of the little details that are hidden over the story, that if you analyze them they give you information that helps you figure out Habib's life and situation. The use of flashbacks make the story interesting, because you can see the the past life of Habib. I really hope there is a continuation to this film, because I have the desire to know what happened to Habib and more information about Habib's wife, such as her life and death.

Incredible film!

[melaniemorales-15325 · 10/10 · 29 November 2023]

This film is incredibly captivating. It kept me at the edge of my seat with the help of the great acting portrayed and very well thought out plot. Definitely was not expecting so much emotion and shock to be felt in this film, that was a great surprise. It has remarkable cinematography and audio. With all the high quality production, it makes the film very entertaining. Overall, I would recommend it to everyone who enjoys watching amazing films. I am totally going to convince my family to watch this film with me and my friends to watch it because, in my opinion, it is different than other films I have seen.