CHUTE

Nora Longatti’s quasi-observational short follows an estranged protagonist, with an indefinite identity (she might or might not work in a hotel; she might be bored or in search of closeness), who fakes fainting in public spaces (be it supermarkets, bus stops, her own flat) in order to gain attention. The fainter, or the faker, allows the stranger to mimic her gesture or offer consolation. Here, the performative body is a vessel, an invitation for any possible scenario. The quiet (premeditated?) act transforms itself into the kind of accident that brings people close to each other, showing just how desperate for connection and affection we all are. I can’t think of a more glaring gesture to describe these idle times. (Georgiana Mușat)