There’s not much to say about “Square Pegs” other than it’s probably one of the most surreal, and yet most powerful short films I’ve ever seen. Not only does the imagery spark a head trip of pure acidic proportions, but it’s such a fantastic statement about faith, and the ongoing war of good and evil and the religious belief of the human soul being wrestled with even after we die. Though I’m not sure I agree with the overall statement Ben Hicks makes about the atheists role in the “war” that ensues for our state of being after our death, “Square Pegs” is nonetheless a powerful little film that makes the best of its low resources.
Arguing on the way to an event, Alison and her family howl at each other in their car and get into a horrible accident. They’re suddenly sitting in a booth in an odd restaurant and marvel at the oddities. Customers hover from table to table, they’re watched by the chef in the darkness, and they’re served a dish that’s grotesque and yet oddly alluring. “Square Pegs” is a Lynchian and demented fantasy that is never quite upfront about its purpose, but still ends up a wonderful production with great performances.
Brianna Weaver is great as the observer watching her family fall to pieces as their stay at the restaurant wears on them, all the while she reads the age old story that has sparked said conflict, and really must comprehend what is occurring. Hicks’ direction is basically above par to what is obviously a film reliant on outside producers and a down to the bone budget, but “Square Pegs” is a great dark art house film that uses every bit of its production with skill. The climax while pretty discomforting, is played very well and Hicks has a pure knack for the demented and philosophical.Hicks creates a wonderfully morbid picture of the world after death and what it may entail. With great production qualities and strong performances, “Square Pegs” is a great depiction of the battle of good and evil.