‘One For The Road’ Review (HollyShorts) | A Thought-Provoking Adaptation That Explores Moral Ambiguity

Stephen King is one of the most prolific writers of this generation. His books and short stories remain popular among people and have been adapted into several big-screen adaptations. However, most of the adaptations we see are based on the novels that became worldwide hits. But filmmaker Daniel Carsenty decided to take a different approach and adapt a short story by King that many might not know about. Carsenty’s latest venture, One For The Road, is an adaptation of King’s short story of the same name and weaves several elements into a story that resonates with deeper moral questions.

The short film chronicles the journey of two movers who, despite their reservations, come to the aid of a waitress facing a mysterious stranger in a diner. Things get eerie when that stranger starts to behave weirdly and doesn’t give appropriate answers to the questions posed by the movers. Although the film relies on well-trodden tropes – a stranded car, an unknown figure seeking assistance, and the terrifying nature of a deserted locale – it manages to combine these elements into a narrative that is much more than just a typical horror story. Additionally, viewers have seen the lonely diner, the wary strangers, and the desolate landscape in several thrillers before. Fortunately, these elements are the short movie’s true focus. Instead, they serve as a backdrop for a more profound exploration of human nature and the problems people face in a society where it’s difficult to understand what’s right and what’s wrong.

A still from ‘One For The Road’ (Photo Credit: Cher Culver PR)

At the core, One For The Road is all about one burning question: Should people help those in need, even if it puts them at risk? The film tries to answer this question subtly but never spoon-feeds the answer to its audience. Interestingly, the movie allows the tension to simmer, leaving audiences to wrestle with the implications of the characters’ choices. Meanwhile, one of the title’s strengths lies in its ambiguity and how it offers a space for reflection that lings long after the story concludes.

Acting-wise, the performances in One For The Road are understated yet effective. Alexander Flores and Travis Hammer masterfully convey the unease and suspicion that arise in such a scenario. Their performances draw the audience into their dilemma and take them on a journey that’s filled with mystery. Additionally, Katie Adler as Gale is also great in her short, yet pivotal role. The chemistry between the movers and the waitress is impeccable because it sheds light on the conflicting emotions: fear, empathy, and duty. On the other hand,  the stranger, played by Richard Clarke-Larsen, catalyzes these emotions, pushing the characters to confront their moral compasses. Despite great performances and great direction, One For The Road is not flawless. The usage of familiar tropes might turn out to be predictable and can dampen the suspense for some. Additionally, the ambiguity of the narrative might not appeal to everyone.

A still from ‘One For The Road’ (Photo Credit: Cher Culver PR)

But overall, the film succeeds in its primary goal: provoking thoughts. In conclusion, One For The Road is a solid adaptation of the Stephen King short story. The short film’s thematic depth and considerate approach to moral ambiguity make it worth watching.

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