Submission

Submission, directed by Richard Shepard, is a 1995 short film written and starring Benicio del Toro. As a poignant commentary on toxic masculinity and societal norms, the short film delves into the complexities of a character struggling to reconcile his repressed desires with the expectations of those around him. The film begins with a series of disquieting and often unsettling events, hinting at the protagonist's growing disillusionment with the strict boundaries placed upon him. The opening scenes, shot in stark, high-contrast black and white, introduce the viewer to a world where emotions are stifled and individuality is suppressed. Del Toro's character, a young man named John, is visibly uneasy, often shifting uncomfortably as he attempts to conform to the societal norms that suffocate him. As the narrative unfolds, John becomes increasingly agitated, revealing a growing frustration with the strict guidelines that dictate his behavior. His relationships with those around him, particularly a female coworker, are marred by his inability to express himself authentically. The chemistry between John and his coworker is palpable, but the power dynamic between them is skewed, with John's repressed sensibilities stifling any possibility of genuine connection. Del Toro's performance is marked by a sense of raw, unbridled energy, as he channels the character's growing desperation into a series of increasingly volatile outbursts. His portrayal is both captivating and unsettling, capturing the viewer's attention even as it leaves them squirming in discomfort. Throughout the film, Shepard employs a stark, unflinching aesthetic, using black-and-white cinematography to amplify the sense of unease and discomfort that pervades the narrative. The stark visuals serve as a fitting counterpoint to the repressed emotions that drive the plot, creating a sense of tension that is almost unbearable at times. As the film draws to a close, John's world begins to unravel, and his fragile emotional equilibrium is pushed to the breaking point. The final scenes are a heart-wrenching descent into madness, as John's carefully constructed facade crumbles, revealing the deep-seated pain and anguish that has been simmering beneath the surface. Submission is a powerful exploration of the costs of toxic masculinity and the devastating consequences of repressing one's true self. Through Benicio del Toro's nuanced and captivating performance, director Richard Shepard crafts a narrative that is both a scathing critique of societal norms and a deeply personal exploration of the human condition. As a short film, Submission may be brief, but its impact lingers long after the credits roll. It is a thought-provoking and unflinching examination of the ways in which societal expectations can crush an individual's spirit, leaving them feeling empty, anxious, and desperate to break free.