African American scientist, Dr. Grainger gathers his closest friends to show them his new invention: the world’s first time machine. However, one of his friends has hidden and dangerous intentions for traveling back in time. An adaptation of the classic sci-fi short story by Fredric Brown.
Project Links
Review by Julie C. Sheppard:
First Time Machine is a short film that explores the consequences, positive and negative, of what could happen if people succeed in creating this commonly imagined invention addressed in many science fiction narratives. The four main characters come to terms with the option of going back in time. Their discussion creates an ominous tone as the ethics behind the invention is addressed.
The unknown can often be frightening, especially when playing with time and space. While the lead actor playing the inventor effectively portrays a man who is intensely driven, he also reveals that he is aware of the moral greyness of his creation, and that it should only be used to better humanity. Another actor playing the friend of the lead convincingly reveals that he has other ideas and strives to change history in a forceful, violent way.
The explanations in the screenplay regarding the use of radiation for time travel are brilliant. The writer obviously has an intelligent, scientific mind to create such a story. The cinematography is also visually stimulating, with extreme close-ups of illuminated switches and circular neon rays, and the use of rapid pans of the high-tech lab setting. The stylish and fearsome orchestral music drives this exhilarating piece. If an invention of this sort ever becomes reality, this film serves as a serious warning that we must consider deeply how humanity can be changed for the better or worse, given the potential for dangerous, unexpected results.
Festival Reviews 