Filmmaker Marcellus Cox crafts a poignant story of redemption in the short drama, Liquor Bank. Based on the true story of an ex-Marine who struggles with alcohol dependency, Liquor Bank is a touching portrayal of commitment to betterment and unconditional brotherly love.

Dark Moments Give Way to Strong Survivors

It’s morning when Eddie’s (Antwone Barnes) phone alarm rings incessantly on his nightstand. Next to the device lay empty beer bottles, presumably from last night’s consumption. Eddie lets the alarm go off for longer than it should, as he doesn’t seem in a rush to wake up and begin his day. His hesitancy indicates that he is already anxious about what is to come. Soon enough, we understand why Eddie is overwhelmed. Last night would have been his first sobriety anniversary, and yet he missed it to stay home and drink.

Watch the Liquor Bank trailer here.

As Eddie lingers around his apartment, he is confronted by his sponsor, Baker (Sean Alexander James). Baker lets Eddie know that he is alarmed that he skipped last night’s AA group meeting and anniversary party. At first, Eddie is combative, trying to explain the difference between being “drunk” vs “buzzed” but Baker isn’t buying it. He shows Eddie some tough love through his concerned yet serious reality check. Baker doesn’t sugarcoat the situation. He empathizes with the sentiment that life is hard but reminds Eddie that liquor doesn’t make this acceptance any easier. It’s a tough message but delivered by a compassionate mentor, which is enough for Eddie to truly have his moment of realization.

Takeaway

Award-winning filmmaker Marcellus Cox is both the writer and director of Liquor Bank. Despite the film’s short runtime, Cox delivers a full-bodied narrative layered with emotional density. A dramatic climax gives way to a powerful ending, one that Cox chooses to close on with a quote attributed to Jeff Warner. The passage reads, “We are not put on this Earth for ourselves, but are placed here for each other. If you are there always for others, then in the time of need, someone will be there for you.” This message is the backbone of the short film, which will leave audiences inspired and optimistic that change, no matter how difficult, is possible.