THE SEATTLE FILM FESTIVAL 2026 REVIEW! Addison Melfi wrote, directed, produced, and stars in Jake. The short drama follows Amber (Melfi), who is homeless but working her ass off. One day, while eating lunch, a little dog comes around the corner, begging for food. Even though she is in a tough spot herself, Amber isn’t heartless, so she gives the dog some food. After that, the two become inseparable, and she names the pup “Jake (Todd).” However, reality sets in, and Amber has to make an impossible choice.
Running a scant 4 minutes and 15 seconds, the drama has more story and heart than films that are 100 minutes long. In just a few shots, Amber’s work ethic is established at the same time her housing predicament is. It is fast, efficient storytelling that is accomplished through showing and not telling. In fact, Melfi uses dialogue sparingly, letting Amber and Jake’s interaction take center stage for much of the screen. As such, the cinematography and blocking of scenes are crucial to understanding Amber’s thought processes.
Jake (Todd) looks up hopefully from the pavement in Jake.
“…Amber isn’t heartless, so she gives the dog some food. After that, the two become inseparable…”
Melfi clearly understands the character, as she is instantly engaging. She garners audience sympathy right away while also highlighting Amber’s resilience. Todd is just a moppet of fur and adorableness. Their interactions are so cute that the heavy drama which comes swinging in later on hits as a surprise.
Jake is a well-directed, impressively acted short. The story hits on all cylinders and the emotions ring true. Most importantly, the ending is so sincere that it makes one hopeful in human nature again.
Jake screened at the 2026 The Seattle Film Festival.
"…a well-directed, impressively acted short."
