Oren Shai (take a look at EMVG review of his earlier short, Heavy Soul) is back with indisputably stylish little story called Condemned. Female convict #1031 is on the edge of paranoia, believing she is going to be executioned. When a new cellmate Laura moves in, #1031 is sure that this will be the end of her life.

Condemned keeps it simple and trusts heavily in the dialogue, minimal but thoughtful sets, great soundtrack (using old spaghetti western soundtrack songs) stylish use of light and shadows and three great actresses. Margaret Anne Florence as convict #1031 gives the face for a vulnerable and sad woman, who has lost his hope and maybe some of her mind as well. Ashlie Atkinson as the unkind night guard gets away with almost stereotypical role, adding a much of fresh angle to it. Aprella gives a nice performance as Laura, as there is something wicked behind the lovely smile. The viewer doesn't know who to trust, as it is case with #1031.

I just can't wait for Oren Shai's first feature film, since these short ones feel ... well, too short. I mean, when you get really interested of the characters and the story, Condemned ends. But hey, this is a praise.