What would you do to carve out a little quiet time for your passion? This is the root question of filmmaker Matthew Paris’s new short film, The Quiet Time. The writer/director/producer/actor takes a minimalist approach in this ultra-indie film, using one location in this pared-down production. It’s a simple film that complements its simple message: Quieting external input can give way to creative output.

Success Meets Solitude

The film opens with close-ups of Americana-inspired home decor. A framed photo of a bald eagle, a perfectly steamed recliner chair, and a Mount Rushmore book are among these sentimental items. The silence is loud as the camera then cuts to a blank computer screen. As the monitor stares back at Jonathan (Paris), who hovers his hands above the keyboard, he appears deep in thought. He finds that the endless possibilities of a blank page can be overwhelming and daunting.

Writer’s block gets the better of Jonathan as he struggles to voice his thoughts. “Why is the first page always the hardest?” he says aloud. Cut to 20 minutes later, Jonathan has removed himself from his office and sits quietly and contemplatively in the living room. This seems to unlock a creative spark, as the next scene shows Jonathan deeply focused on creating his new draft.

Takeaway

Sometimes, removing oneself from an overwhelming situation is the only way to get through a roadblock and move forward. In The Quiet Time, Matthew Paris explores this coping mechanism in a very intimate setting: his home. The production is very minimal; two music moments and a short monologue make up the entirety of the film’s audible moments. The camerawork is static, giving a sense of groundedness and stability. For a short film that is less than two minutes long, there is only so much “story” to tell. However, Paris successfully creates a simple call and response that serves as a gentle reminder to find the beauty in taking things slow.