Last ride (2020)

Directed by: Edson da Conceicao | 10 minutes | drama, short film | Actors: Walid Benmbarek, Manoushka Zeegelaar Breeveld, Joy Delima, Thijs Boermans, Jerry Armah, Urias Boerleider

One of the finest feel-good subgenres is that of the gruff, stiff protagonist who encounters a disarming opponent. You know that his or her charms will not miss their effect, but despite that predictability, this is often heartwarming – if performed well of course.

‘Last Ride’ is one such production. This one in the context of NTR Kort! The film made is about a taxi driver in Rotterdam. At the end of his long shift (it’s the middle of the night) he accidentally takes one last ride. He reports to the exchange, but receives no cooperation: “You are still at work, aren’t you?” Somewhat grumpy, he picks up his passenger; a middle-aged woman who has difficulty putting her suitcase in the trunk and walks with a cane. She kindly extends her hand to introduce herself, but the taxi driver does so by raising his hand. Somewhat reluctantly, he says his name is Sam. The passenger asks if he wants to drive in, which Sam initially refuses. Yet the woman manages to persuade him.

A sandwich and a sensitive moment later, in which the woman tells something about her past, and the foundation for a friendship that lasts many years seems to have been laid. Sam (in full Oussama) and Joyce arrive at Joyce’s final destination when it is already light. To reveal more would be a shame, but believe it; ‘Last ride’ doesn’t leave you cold. Thanks to the fantastically convincing acting of the two protagonists, your faith in humanity will be boosted. Highly recommended.