Set in 18th-century England, Jeffrey Cohen’s short film, The Ballad of Isabel Winslow, follows two charming but penniless con artists, Isabel Winslow (Shelley Q.) and John Banterbury (Nathan Vincenti), as they execute a bold scheme targeting an arrogant aristocrat, Lord Benedict (Robert Hadlock). With the monarchy recently fallen and chaos brewing in the upper classes, Isabel and John arrive at a grand estate under the guise of nobility.
Isabel is worried that John is too much of a simpleton and may not take his role seriously. But he’s all she’s got. Their objective: swindle Lord Benedict in a rigged high-stakes card game at a formal gathering. Benedict, eager to prove his skill and reputation, offers a £25,000 wager on credit, unknowingly stepping into their trap.
John Banterbury faces off with Lord Benedict in a tense fencing duel to defend his honor
“…two charming but penniless con artists…”
Inside the opulent ballroom, Isabel and John work their roles with precision—Isabel subtly signaling to John as the hands progress, while Lord Benedict remains none the wiser. When John goes all in, the pressure mounts, and he comes out on top over Lord Benedict—humiliated by a public spectacle. Lord Benedict, suspicious and humiliated, challenges John to a fencing duel to defend his honor and recover his pride.
What first struck me about The Ballad of Isabel Winslow was the production values. Set on an 18th-century estate, the film feels authentic, complete with powdered wigs and corsets. Because it’s an indie production, just enough Georgian-era elements are used to provide sufficient authenticity to tell the story.
With the stage set, writer/director Jeffrey Cohen creates a solid and simple con for John and Isabel to play out—a fun and engaging ride. The Ballad of Isabel Winslow delivers period charm and clever storytelling in a tight, satisfying package.
"…delivers period charm and clever storytelling..."
