LITTLE DOORS

Isolated and awkward, a woman hires an equally socially inept locksmith to open a door in her empty, abandoned McMansion in the quiet post-apocalyptic world of LITTLE DOORS. A small connection built on mirroring behavior and unambiguous communication quickly becomes a relationship as he’s invited to move in.

The two make every attempt at a normal romantic relationship, including uncomfortably standing by a fire together, exchanging gifts, having a picnic while the world burns behind them, and spending nearly every moment together while their conversations continue in their quiet, matter-of-fact manner. All the while, the woman is hiding a secret. A large, angry-looking cyst reveals itself to be a small, locked wooden door in the side of her body. A door someone starts knocking on from the other side.

No longer able to hide it, the two face the decision of whether or not to open it. She explores medical and spiritual intervention to no avail, and eventually allows her partner to pick the lock. What they find on the other side transforms their relationship forever.

A thoughtful, absurdist exploration of relationships, emotional availability, and one’s own sense of self, LITTLE DOORS quietly speaks volumes. Anthony Oberbeck, as writer, director, and co-lead of LITTLE DOORS, expertly weaves deadpan humor and heart while illuminating the sad, difficult realities of finding connection in the modern world. A powerful directorial debut, this movie has a unique charm that is sure to resonate with those of us who have a terminal case of social awkwardness. (KEV DOOLEY)