Written and directed by Marshall Tyler, Slow Pulse depicts a man in his 30s beginning dance classes for the first time. Though his reasons behind the sudden need for dance are uncertain, his incredible zeal is unquestionable. Mirroring a classic sports film, training montages, this dramatic short showcases the struggles of this passionate dancer.
“…a man in his 30s beginning dance classes for the first time.”
Jimmie Fails is fantastic as the protagonist. His ability to bring the character to life with minimal dialogue is superb and allows the will to dance to speak louder than any words could. When the film’s climax reveals our protagonist’s motivation to move his body and feet to the music, Fails adds depth, elevating an already strong character.
In a film, just under 12-minutes, Marshall Tyler successfully builds an emotional core that resonates throughout the story. The audience has few hints about the motivation to dance but feels the pull to root for the protagonist. The director does not waste a second in Slow Pulse. Every scene builds toward the third-act reveal and relishes the opportunity to craft a brilliant character piece in such a brief runtime. The film may not be the most groundbreaking, but it’s undoubtedly a powerful introduction to Fails and Tyler. I eagerly await their future projects, hopefully working together.
"…undoubtedly a powerful introduction to Fails and Tyler."
