Director PJ Starks has managed to create something of a very gripping and heartbreaking short film that doesn't exactly lead audiences where one would expect. All along I suspected director Starks was going for an exploitative horror twist, but in reality the gut wrenching turn that ensues is far from horror and more horrific. But while the center piece is the overall hook to the story, "A Mind Beside Itself" is a testament to the power of grief, and the endless nightmare that is regret and guilt. Regret that we didn't appreciate our loved ones while we had them. And guilt that it's much too late to do anything about it. Tristan is a man who has just met the love of his life and they're experiencing an amazing romance that will define his life forever. But as he spends most of his time with his new love Maya, he also has another world where his mind lingers. It's a world where he spends most of time and continues to box himself in that is beginning to tear apart his tumultuous love with his new wife.

With a slew of strong performances, and a gut wrenching narrative, "A Mind Beside Itself" is a wonderful and grueling short drama that will speak to audiences who have yet to fully grieve for the special someone.