'Day One' A Review

Day One is an Oscar nominated short film about the first day of US Army translator Feda(Layla Alizada) in Afghanistan. Feda is sent out with a squad to investigate a suspected terrorist. During the operation the suspect wife goes into labor and Feda must deliver the baby.

Frenetic and at times overwhelming the film has the feeling of the front. Feda is the lead and audience surrogate- confused, conflicted, and scared. Although brief, 25 minutes, a layered and compelling story unfolds. Cultures clash and gender is explored in this bizarre pseudo-family microcosm within the broader Afghan struggle. The war provides a backdrop which requires almost instant intimacy.

Heartbreaking and empowering. In theaters now as part of the Oscar nominated shorts presentation.

See It.