In The Space Between, writer-director Luke Baker explores an unlikely bond. Trying to escape what she sees as a dead college party, Charlotte (Piper Verbrick) feels out of place and visibly bored. In a moment of frustration, she smashes a beer bottle while trying to open it. Aubrey (Sam Clifford), the party’s host, notices and offers help, ultimately joining Charlotte when she decides to leave. The two escape to a quiet lakeside, where Charlotte confides that her roommate pressured her to attend the party in an attempt to boost her social life.
As the night unfolds, a conversation reveals the stark differences in their lives: Charlotte is aimless and uncertain about her future, while Aubrey feels trapped on a path laid out by her father. Despite their differences, the pair forms an unexpected connection.
Charlotte and Aubrey share a meaningful moment under the stage lights
“Charlotte accepts Aubrey’s invitation to the improv show, confronting her fears and insecurities.”
Aubrey shares her passion for improv, likening its spontaneity to that of life itself, and encourages Charlotte to attend one of her performances. The short culminates in a subtle but powerful moment of growth as Charlotte accepts Aubrey’s invitation to the improv show, confronting her fears and insecurities.
The Space Between is a sweet story of making a connection. On paper, the two are complete opposites, but instead, take a chance on one another. Soon, they realize that the other’s strength is the perfect complement to their weakness.
Piper Verbrick and Sam Clifford are perfectly cast, giving a much-needed authenticity to their performances. They don’t come across as actors hired to recite a script—instead, from start to finish, you’re in on their adventure together. As a personal preference, I’m not a fan of this form of improv comedy, but that’s neither here nor there. What’s important is that this sweet little tale’ll touch you.
"…On paper, the two are complete opposites…"
