Two Strangers Who Meet Five Times by Marcus Markou

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 29 січ 2019
  • Two Strangers Who Meet Five Times screened at the following festivals throughout 2017 and 2018 - winning the following awards.
    Follow me on Twitter at
    / marcusmarkou
    IMDB info here:
    www.imdb.com/title/tt7524428/...
    Los Angeles Film Awards
    Paris Play Film Festival - WINNER BEST SHORT
    LA Shorts Awards
    Mindfield Film Festival, Albuquerque - WINNER BEST SHORT
    San Luis Obispo International Film Festival - WINNER BEST NARRATIVE SHORT
    New Jersey International Film Festival
    Chandler International Film Festival
    European Independent Film Award
    Jaipur International Film Festival
    Beaufort International Film Festival
    Irvine International Film Festival
    San Francisco Independent Film Festival
    Sedona International Film Festival
    Boulder International Film Festival
    Newcastle Film Festival
    Taos Shortz Film Fest - WINNER PEOPLE’S CHOICE
    Omaha Film Festival - WINNER AUDIENCE AWARD FOR BEST SHORT FILM
    Norwegian International Seagull Shortfilm Festival
    SHORT TO THE POINT International Short Film Festival Awards - WINNER BEST SCREENPLAY ANNUAL AWARDS
    Beeston Film Festival - WINNER BEST DRAMATIC SHORT
    Glass City Film Festival
    Maryland International Film Festival -WINNER BEST SHORT FILM
    Sunscreen Film Festival - WINNER JURY AWARD FOR BEST SHORT FILM
    Julien Dubuque International Film Festival
    Arizona International Film Festival
    Solar Cinema Malta
    Heartland Indy Shorts Film Festival
    Self Propelled Short Film Festival
    Newport Beach Film Festival
    Ocean Coast Film Festival
    WorldFest-Houston International Film & Video Festival
    Sioux Empire Film Festival
    Hoboken International Film Festival
    The Long Island International Film Expo - WINNER BEST FOREIGN SHORT
    London Greek Film Festival
    New Media Film Festival - WINNER AUDIENCE AWARD
    Prescott Film Festival - WINNER JURY AWARD, BEST NARRATIVE SHORT
    Kiev International Film Festival
    Woods Hole Film Festival - WINNER BEST SHORT, DRAMA
    SouthSide Film Festival
    St Albans Film Festival
    WorldFest-Houston International Film & Video Festival
    Mexico City Independent Film Fest
    Blue Whiskey Independent Film Festival - WINNER BEST NARRATIVE SHORT, DRAMA
    Indie Street Film Festival
    Dinard Film Festival - WINNER AUDIENCE AWARD
    Manhattan Short Film Festival - WINNER (Gold Medal)
    International Short Film Festival of Cyprus
    San Jose International Short Film Festival - WINNER
    Vasteras Film Festival
    Byron Bay Film Festival
    Royal Starr Film Festival - WINNER, BEST FOREIGN SHORT
    Birmingham International Film Festival
  • Розваги

КОМЕНТАРІ • 10 тис.

  • @marcusmarkou
    @marcusmarkou  3 роки тому +7022

    For two years we were doing 20 or so views a day and I was really happy with it. But in the last three weeks this has blown up because people are liking, sharing and commenting. So please do keep liking and sharing this. It means so much to us all that people see this film. Thank you for all your beautiful and kind comments. And I know lots of schools are playing this to their students and I am very happy to do a Zoom Q&A with any classes, anywhere around the world. You can find me on Twitter twitter.com/MarcusMarkou or email me via www.doublemfilms.co.uk

    • @phoenixpersonified3484
      @phoenixpersonified3484 3 роки тому +68

      Can you please add English subtitles? Would much appreciate it 🙏🙏🙏

    • @historias-aburridas
      @historias-aburridas 3 роки тому +23

      Me encantó! Gracias por hacer un filme como este. Sería espléndido que tuviera subtítulos!

    • @xkimopye
      @xkimopye 3 роки тому +31

      And well deserved too, can only imagine it will become much bigger than the current 200,000 views. Well done.

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  3 роки тому +23

      @@DebOnTheWebb Hi Debbie. I need to do this. Sadly, my Instagram account is only used for ironic purposes. And I'm wondering whether I should find someone with a big following that resonates with the film and get them to share it. But yes, will investigate!

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  3 роки тому +32

      @@phoenixpersonified3484 Okay, yes. I will look at doing a version that has English Subs... I am about to go shoot a feature film in June and its full on. But let me put this on the list.

  • @Rosebud100
    @Rosebud100 Рік тому +2062

    I went out of my way to help someone who had lost their luggage on a flight from Spain to Glasgow. I was 18 years old. A few years later, I went for a job interview and the young man whom I had helped that day at Glasgow Airport, offered me the job on the spot! Through this job offer, I eventually ended up working in London and the company sent me to Gibraltar on a business trip where I met my English husband. We eventually married, moved to Madrid and had three amazing kids. I live in a lovely house with a swimming pool and I have been very happy… all because I stayed on after my shift had finished to help a stranger who was very distressed about his lost luggage. You never know who you know! My first meeting with the stranger was in 1977.

    • @joanneweiss3864
      @joanneweiss3864 Рік тому +68

      OMG your story should be a short film too! I'm so thrilled for you & your story moves me deeply. Bless you & your family in this new year💖🥳

    • @Rosebud100
      @Rosebud100 Рік тому +17

      @@joanneweiss3864 Thank you. Happy New Year.

    • @anmoljain2794
      @anmoljain2794 Рік тому +15

      This was really inspiring ! Hope you have a good day ahead :)

    • @sergio-xs1wq
      @sergio-xs1wq Рік тому +8

      I believe detiny, fate

    • @Bella-gj6wc
      @Bella-gj6wc Рік тому +36

      You just never know, how your life touches others. I was in my early 40’s ending my long term first marriage (separated), and was finishing my last year of my bachelors degree. One Sunday morning (as a “reward” for doing my homework), I allowed myself to play Euchre on MSN game zone. I had already planned a leave of absence from my long term job, to pursue my masters degree in Kentucky. At the time I lived in western Canada. I clicked on a table of 3 players waiting for a 4th player. Out of hundreds of tables I choose it at random. My partner in the game, lived 5 mins from the university I planned to attend for my masters degree. We stayed and played most of the day (it was a Sunday) as partners . During the course of the day I found out he was the custodial dad of 4 kids, whose wife had deserted him with. His parents were helping him, so he could work full time. He’d been living 90 minutes away from his kids for 4 years, by the time he “met” me. I thought “here’s a man who stepped up to his responsibilities”, and had family helping him. I could use a friend, if I got accepted to university, and he lived less than 5 mins from campus. We had a long distance relationship, for a year, while I finished my undergrad. By that time, I was madly in love, and knew I would marry him. God works is strange ways. I finished school; sold my house on a handshake; received a year of severance to leave my job; sold almost everything I owned; moved to a new country; married him; took my masters degree on a federal grant; helped him finish raising the last two of his four kids; and was blissfully happy X 10 years. He passed away, very suddenly, following a relatively small surgery, and left me more money through life insurance that I knew he had. IF a tarot card reader had told me, everything “looks great until year 10, and then he’s going to pass away”, I would have still married him, to have the 10 years we had together. One of the boys I helped him raise, thanked me “for coming into their lives, and being with his dad at the very end, because he was sure my presence helped his dad transition”. I never in a million years thought the kids I’d help him raise would cleave to me after his passing, but they have, and I’m so grateful. So, sometimes, you just have to take a chance, listen to your internal voice, and be kind, because it’s always the “right thing to do”. God takes us in hand to show us “the path” we need to be on. You sometimes just have to trust him and “let go”, if the things you thought were important. Good luck to everyone, on this journey we call “life”. ❤️❤️

  • @duanesantos8138
    @duanesantos8138 Рік тому +110

    The subtle way the mom grabs for her kid when they met the 1st time and said "... don't want you catching any germs." shows where the guy got that type of mentality from. Racism is taught unfortunately.
    GREAT short film!!! I'm going to watch it again right now!

  • @startidewizard
    @startidewizard 6 місяців тому +49

    Ok this video tripped me out.. 8 years ago i was 19 and homeless in seattle, hooked on heroin and selling it just to get by. I feel really weird outright saying this (drugs made me the worst version of myself) i had pulled a lady into an alley and robbed her for her wallet and credit cards... 2 years later im sober and have my own place, dealing with all the guilt and trauma that drugs and homelessness bring. I had a new job and with my first paycheck i went out to the city to get the homeless whatever they needed that day. All honesty, one of the women i approached asked if i could get her diapers, baby wipes, some water ect. I come back from the rite aid and immediately recognized her as the woman i had robbed a few years prior... my heart absolutely fucking broke and all i could do was hide my shame and cry. to this day i advocate for and work with the homeless and troubled youth to show them a brighter way. Kindness is everything and we all can get lost at times. Some a little more than others. Show compassion to everyone and to yourselves 💜💙

    • @amandatyler4324
      @amandatyler4324 4 місяці тому +2

      Goes to show even criminals are humans.

    • @xqxxy686
      @xqxxy686 2 місяці тому +2

      You're about the same age as my step daughter. I haven't seen her in many years. Last I heard she was homeless somewhere. I wish I could helped her.

    • @ednapuckett1042
      @ednapuckett1042 Місяць тому

      God bless you! Prayers to continue to be blessed & a blessing.

  • @gbnred175
    @gbnred175 Рік тому +23

    Not friends, not enemies
    Just strangers with some memories

    • @isaiah6659
      @isaiah6659 Рік тому +1

      Is that a song 🤔

    • @gbnred175
      @gbnred175 Рік тому +1

      @@isaiah6659 I donno mate

  • @AnthonyMiyazaki
    @AnthonyMiyazaki 3 роки тому +3794

    You never know when you'll cross paths again. And again. And again. So make each crossing a kind one.

    • @AnthonyMiyazaki
      @AnthonyMiyazaki 3 роки тому +28

      By the way, fantastic work on this Marcus, from start to finish. Innovative and well-constructed!

    • @Trystannenoire
      @Trystannenoire 3 роки тому +8

      ❤️

    • @davicslobodan5934
      @davicslobodan5934 3 роки тому +6

      200% Truth

    • @kennymos9007
      @kennymos9007 2 роки тому +5

      @@AnthonyMiyazaki sometimes kindness comes in harshness....

    • @dustindegagner8523
      @dustindegagner8523 2 роки тому +3

      @@Cyberbanditmx That's incredible. ❤

  • @patjenkins3402
    @patjenkins3402 3 роки тому +348

    My father once helped a woman with a flat tire in near our home southern NM. He recognized her accent and asked if she was also from Pennsylvania. Turns out that they were in elementary school together over fifty years ago. You never really meet a stranger.

    • @marijanetarot9843
      @marijanetarot9843 3 роки тому +4

      Ever.

    • @gav-ce5cm
      @gav-ce5cm 3 роки тому +1

      That's amazing

    • @alamaamosa3801
      @alamaamosa3801 3 роки тому +2

      The ironys n life ,what your 1st perception of people ,I met this guy who was an enemy, obnoxious rude we have become best mates,yeah he still rude.Im his best man at his wedding my speech started with how we met and 2 have the honour 2 give an account of our friendship which left the crowd n tears and laughter...happy ever after

    • @yoyashuyo3485
      @yoyashuyo3485 3 роки тому +1

      @@alamaamosa3801 who knows life can change upside down! One must treat others as he wants himself to get treated. Have a great life all☺️

    • @johnfrancis4090
      @johnfrancis4090 3 роки тому

      kinda like when you make a "sound", Silence is broken

  • @philrossner3250
    @philrossner3250 Рік тому +39

    As a videographer and aspiring short documentary maker, I am so inspired by this film. I have watched it many times and revel in the way Marcus has conveyed the story.

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  Рік тому +2

      Thanks Phil. Good luck with all your filmmaking projects.

    • @MrMelonsz
      @MrMelonsz Рік тому +1

      @@marcusmarkouGreat job man. Not many people can make something truly amazing out of just actors and settings nowadays.

  • @spontaneous09
    @spontaneous09 Місяць тому +17

    “So you see… we’re not just telling stories, we’re changing lives.”

  • @Goose2001
    @Goose2001 2 роки тому +704

    Makes you wonder how many people you've met, more than once.

    • @c1inward346
      @c1inward346 2 роки тому +13

      I met a depressed clown more than five times near my house... does that actually mean something?

    • @OmniGuy
      @OmniGuy 2 роки тому +2

      Seven. Seven people.

    • @meesbeijer6614
      @meesbeijer6614 2 роки тому +4

      It’s more a message than a given I think..

    • @edwenferraz802
      @edwenferraz802 2 роки тому

      I remember one that a meet two times

    • @edwenferraz802
      @edwenferraz802 2 роки тому +3

      She is a girl and I know today she is completely diferent. Maybe someday we can meet a third time

  • @jpch8814
    @jpch8814 3 роки тому +401

    It's amazing how some talented people can fill 12 minutes with so much emotion, themes, and deeper meanings while big 2 hour movies and millions of dollars amount to pure trash.

  • @cathrynpaterson7539
    @cathrynpaterson7539 Рік тому +19

    Had to watch it several times in order to grasp the message of how children who play together are influenced by their parents and how our consequent attitudes affect our lives.

  • @htspencer9084
    @htspencer9084 10 місяців тому +15

    Its funny, we remember the hurt we receive so viscerally but not the hurt we put onto others.

  • @supernova11711
    @supernova11711 3 роки тому +819

    This was just so well done on so many levels. When the mom pulled her child away saying she didn’t want him to “get any germs”...that’s when it really started. The beginning of the corruption of a beautiful, sweet boy. It was a hard lesson to undo and it nearly broke him but with one astronomical show of kindness and forgiveness and belief in him, he was able to open his heart back up. He was able to do a 360 and become the beautiful man that young boy was always meant to be.
    We need to teach our children love and kindness, not hatred and division. Not only for others but for their happiness as well. Hatred will rot you from the inside.

    • @juliahartshorn2473
      @juliahartshorn2473 3 роки тому +26

      I think that the mum comment at the sand pit is a good illustration of the ambiguity of our communications in our day to day lives -
      The mum's intention may be related to the idea of germs in a public sand pit, and not as a racial slur, the sowing of alienating seeds.
      How we hear and interpret are as important as what we say.
      I like this short film very much, it speaks much of human communication and relating. ❤️👍🌱

    • @diona5370
      @diona5370 3 роки тому +25

      Doinf a 360 means he didnt change lol

    • @supernova11711
      @supernova11711 3 роки тому +2

      @@juliahartshorn2473 I just assumed that that was meant to be the message based on the rest of the film...as he grew up to be a racist.

    • @supernova11711
      @supernova11711 3 роки тому +17

      @@diona5370 180 then. Think most people got the gist of what I was trying to say.

    • @diona5370
      @diona5370 3 роки тому +9

      @@supernova11711 im just pullin ya tail. Thoughtful comment your was, the video was beautiful

  • @estebanruiz1715
    @estebanruiz1715 3 роки тому +522

    The irony of life in twelve minutes. What a masterpiece. Bravo!

    • @raaniyakrishna8614
      @raaniyakrishna8614 3 роки тому +10

      Yes, it is definitely a master piece

    • @__Rizzler__
      @__Rizzler__ 3 роки тому +4

      BRAVO 4-19 ON THE WAY

    • @TerryFreak389
      @TerryFreak389 3 роки тому +3

      I’m in here with tears 😭 😭💕💕

    • @abdulmumin6251
      @abdulmumin6251 3 роки тому +4

      Mind blowing man what did i just watch. Heart mind emotions everywhere so touching man

    • @anuradhaperera3802
      @anuradhaperera3802 3 роки тому +1

      @@TerryFreak389 me too😢

  • @tinkerstrade3553
    @tinkerstrade3553 Рік тому +27

    We remain who we are, yet we are always becoming someone else. At 70, I would be a stranger to my 20 year old self. Changes.

    • @zoecunningham3019
      @zoecunningham3019 Рік тому +4

      Eloquently worded. Journeys may alter the landscape views, the vehicle aged heavier from momentous gathered.

    • @farcamp
      @farcamp Рік тому +4

      At 60, I feel the same. Thank you...

  • @classifiedinformation6353
    @classifiedinformation6353 Рік тому +14

    We are strangers, but together we have just witnessed a fine film worthy of sharing with everyone, including strangers.

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  Рік тому +2

      Thank you, that's a beautiful message.

  • @linhtruong4832
    @linhtruong4832 Рік тому +33

    I like how it ends with the prospect of them going to the park together - a park is where they first met as children.

  • @ashleywright8686
    @ashleywright8686 3 роки тому +308

    Think how many times this could have happened, in our lives.

    • @RRodriguez1904
      @RRodriguez1904 3 роки тому +7

      Right? When we weren’t paying attention? 🍃

    • @Caes3r_
      @Caes3r_ 3 роки тому +5

      this is so crazy to think about

    • @ashleywright8686
      @ashleywright8686 3 роки тому +6

      @@Caes3r_ it truly is, isn’t it?? Have a wonderful day!

    • @gav-ce5cm
      @gav-ce5cm 3 роки тому +3

      From childhood it's amazing to think about it.

    • @yoyashuyo3485
      @yoyashuyo3485 3 роки тому +2

      I had a childhood friend we used to play a lot then, i got far away as my father got transferred to other place, after 15-16 years we were in high school, and i got a glimpse from past i know this guy, then i met him again, but life was changed he remember me but not like old friends just a random person, i felt a little awkward and really bad. Then we passed from high school, and since then i never met him again!

  • @TheMvkol
    @TheMvkol Рік тому +23

    It actually is crazy how everyone is connected. I was telling a story to my girlfriend at the times parents and i had mentioned the dugout which was a place for adult softball games and they had said they used to play there, and then her mom began telling me a story about how a little kid got hit with a ball when he was still in a stroller. That kid was me lmao, she was telling me a story about me to me, it turns out that my ex and I used to play together on the playground lmao. I even went to high school with her same grade and everything and I never even knew who she was, but she knew me which I thought was the craziest thing

  • @kellygreen195
    @kellygreen195 Рік тому +32

    Probably the best short film I've ever seen. So well done. Love it. A powerful message on many levels.

  • @jl5464
    @jl5464 2 роки тому +73

    the first meeting was really difficult. it just proves that the majority of hate and bias is taught to our children, and that starts the theft of innocence from our youth. absolutely beautiful film.

    • @entertainmentbuzz944
      @entertainmentbuzz944 2 роки тому +1

      I don't think that was some prejudice in their firsr encounter. I personally thought her mother said he might get germs because of the cold or something. You might be right tho

    • @jl5464
      @jl5464 2 роки тому +4

      @@entertainmentbuzz944 I believe I'm correct, it would explain why the film maker waited so long to show the first meeting. still, it's all up for interpretation. ☮❤🅰️

    • @UncleJoeHikes
      @UncleJoeHikes 2 роки тому +4

      The bigotry I saw in my youth wasn’t from my parents. It was from my peers. It’s easy to blame parents, and often correct to,, but I typically saw goodness and fairness in my childhood friends’ parents I didn’t see in them. So you have to ask where is that learned?

    • @jl5464
      @jl5464 2 роки тому +1

      @@UncleJoeHikes I agree, environment and peer pressure definitely play a part. However, I wouldn't expect you to be privy to that type of behavior (as a youth) from adults, if it was present at all, as most people tend to guard their speech and behavior when their child has friends over.

  • @MrRGBTV
    @MrRGBTV 3 роки тому +149

    Never burn a bridge. You may need to walk across it yourself some day. Very very well done.

    • @patriciacole8773
      @patriciacole8773 3 роки тому +1

      My mom tells me that. Thanks for the reminder.

    • @oldvet7547
      @oldvet7547 3 роки тому

      Absolutely true. Never, ever, burn a bridge.

    • @TheBigHoax
      @TheBigHoax 2 роки тому

      Sometimes the bridges you burn light your way - rather: never be an a**hole to anyone…

  • @tomlonebegween3104
    @tomlonebegween3104 Рік тому +15

    Poetry and short movies can achieve so much more than a book or a feature length movie.

  • @andreasullivan2419
    @andreasullivan2419 9 місяців тому +16

    Life doesnt run in a straight line.
    It circles back on itself more often than we know.
    DAMN GOOD MOVIE!!

    • @hanumm9938
      @hanumm9938 9 місяців тому

      ..because it should guard against the danger of being tread into the wrong path in its evolution at every moment.

  • @_jazzypants7321
    @_jazzypants7321 3 роки тому +189

    Why has it taken youtube over 2 years to recommend this to me? That, was exceptional. Bravo M. Markou.

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  3 роки тому +17

      For a couple of years it just bounced on the bottom of a the sea bed, just 20 or so views per day then suddenly at the end of March it started to blow up.

    • @chefcocoa9890
      @chefcocoa9890 3 роки тому +4

      Same here 👍

    • @Rhea303
      @Rhea303 3 роки тому +1

      Precious ❣

    • @barbarakangas3255
      @barbarakangas3255 3 роки тому +3

      Just came through for me, too! I love it. Still, I guess it shows the power of the internet. I may be seeing this later than I would have if I had attended the local Film Festival, where I see it was a winner, but at least I get to see it. It really makes me wonder about the people I've crossed paths with.

    • @evoL.i
      @evoL.i 3 роки тому +3

      Coz now u ready & it's time.
      Decided by utube or universe?
      Is the question.

  • @duncanidahoffs
    @duncanidahoffs Рік тому +40

    Completely encapsulates the concept of how even the smallest of interactions can have the greatest of consequences - something I'm trying to teach my son. Beautiful, thank you!

  • @Prof.Tarfeather
    @Prof.Tarfeather Рік тому +11

    It's a small World after all. You never know when you're entertaining Angels. So always give the best of yourself, be kind to others and leave them with their dignity.

  • @nectere_
    @nectere_ Рік тому +18

    This made me realize, how many people do we see/know now that we had played with as kids?

    • @rodriguezelfeliz4623
      @rodriguezelfeliz4623 Рік тому +3

      My parents lived in the same neighborhood as kids, they wen't to mass at the same church. They don't remember meeting back then... but they got married about 30 years later

  • @TaniaHegger
    @TaniaHegger 3 роки тому +51

    A old proverb says...be nice with the younger, the beggar and the old man ...because at some point of your life you could be all of them...I love it 💓

  • @jamespsyfer
    @jamespsyfer 3 роки тому +163

    Innocence of children,prejudice/ignorance.. forgiveness.. compassion... humility.. repentance.. redemption..very poetic!🙏

    • @mlight6845
      @mlight6845 3 роки тому +1

      A man's walk through life.

    • @jamespsyfer
      @jamespsyfer 3 роки тому +2

      @@mlight6845 ..as Sherlock Holmes once said.." you are not in yourself luminous, but you are nevertheless a conductor of light! " M.Light 😁

    • @dellacalfee
      @dellacalfee 3 роки тому +1

      Yes, James

    • @dellacalfee
      @dellacalfee 3 роки тому +4

      @@jamespsyfer I have learned we do emanate near infrared light just beyond the visible spectrum.

    • @jamespsyfer
      @jamespsyfer 3 роки тому +3

      @@dellacalfee touché 🤣🤣🤣

  • @marylethamatthews3231
    @marylethamatthews3231 Рік тому +11

    Our mother always taught us this. Be kind you never know who will cross your path again. That was a gift. So is this film. Thank you.

    • @nailaaslam879
      @nailaaslam879 Рік тому +1

      Exactly.....the way v treat others actually reflects how v r ourselves.....so shud always b nice to others...

    • @mandalorian1282
      @mandalorian1282 Рік тому

      @@nailaaslam879 Sister it’s ‘we’ not ‘v’

  • @raymondkymsuttle
    @raymondkymsuttle Рік тому +25

    I’m a harsh critic who’s had to watch hundreds of shorts over the years in the biz (& have made about 25 myself!) & I can honestly say this is one of the best shorts I’ve ever seen. Fantastic concept, structure & acting. I find some of the dialogue slightly clunky but there’s also some great writing. The money/gratitude scene was superbly acted.

    • @MrMelonsz
      @MrMelonsz Рік тому

      Agreed!

    • @ThatCreeNative1
      @ThatCreeNative1 2 місяці тому

      Sometimes, the most simplest ideas are often the greatest. Too many try too much or too little. This filmmaker understands storytelling.

  • @mychief
    @mychief 3 роки тому +79

    Every time, the person on the receiving end is the only one to remember.
    Whether you are being nice or being abusive, you'll forget but the object of your action will never forget.

    • @mychief
      @mychief 3 роки тому +9

      I have found this true in my own life.
      Where I've treated people the way they've treated me but even they have forgotten what they did.
      I've also found myself on the receiving end of the treatment.

    • @cottawalla
      @cottawalla 2 роки тому +1

      I noticed that too and thought how insightful of the script writer to ensure that the act of kindness was genuine selflessness, not motivated by a desire for atonement with just that one individual.
      Edit: I'm referring to meetings numbers 4 and 5.

    • @the_real_lajos_toth
      @the_real_lajos_toth 2 роки тому

      So true. So wise.

  • @TheSouthIsHot
    @TheSouthIsHot Рік тому +58

    There are a lot of lessons here.
    1. Don't be mean to others.
    2. When you're mean and experience the consequences, don't blame others.
    3. When someone is mean to you, don't seek revenge.
    3. Being mean to someone who was mean to you, just because you can, doesn't make you a hero.
    4. Acknowledging that you were mean and deserved the consequences will grow you into a better person.
    5. Humility will grow you while arrogance can destroy you.
    6. Helping others, rather than hurting them, will bring joy.

  • @cognitive_yoddha
    @cognitive_yoddha Рік тому +12

    We cross paths with hundreds of people every single day, most of whom we shall NEVER EVER see again!

  • @regmisandeep
    @regmisandeep 8 місяців тому +26

    Meet 1 : Both innocent
    Meet 2: Alister is kinda mean
    Meet 3: Aziz is kinda mean
    Meet 4: Alister is in need and Aziz is really generous
    Meet 5: Aziz is in need and Alister is really generous .

    • @pamelagood8077
      @pamelagood8077 6 місяців тому +4

      So much more than that. Neither one remembers how much their actions and reactions affected the other. Innocent throughout, but unconscious until awakened to their affect on others.

  • @markkillset5205
    @markkillset5205 3 роки тому +51

    My only disappointment was this wasn't a full 2hr movie. Great Job to the writer and all involved.

  • @chazfreakshow
    @chazfreakshow 3 роки тому +236

    Fine, go ahead and make me cry why don't you.

    • @e.l.france5136
      @e.l.france5136 3 роки тому +11

      For sure and now you make me smile. Thank you.

  • @unoocha
    @unoocha Рік тому +10

    When Aziz smiled, I smiled with him without realizing it. Thank you so much for making this video

  • @youngking3769
    @youngking3769 Рік тому +11

    World is small
    You will meet the same people many times.
    So always show respect

    • @antonioortiz2427
      @antonioortiz2427 Рік тому +1

      Maybe we never found ourselves, in this our home

  • @marielucier7982
    @marielucier7982 3 роки тому +55

    The innocence of childhood friends and the learned lessons in maturity of old age meet. Beautiful story.

  • @Benjiforthemoon
    @Benjiforthemoon 2 роки тому +244

    This film proves you’re not the same person you were ten years ago.
    Anyone can change. Even for the better.

    • @solutionquickie1569
      @solutionquickie1569 2 роки тому +1

      yes they can but they could pay for their actions

    • @akizmetkat999
      @akizmetkat999 2 роки тому +1

      No man ever steps into the same river twice.

    • @ChosenByJC
      @ChosenByJC 2 роки тому +1

      It certainly suggests that we’re capable of change…

    • @brodylockley3141
      @brodylockley3141 2 роки тому +1

      @@akizmetkat999 that’s makes no sense to me what are you trying to say

    • @vihansubramaniam3593
      @vihansubramaniam3593 2 роки тому

      @@solutionquickie1569 They should pay if its immediate. Nobody should have to pay for something they did over a decade ago (unless its something that had a huge impact)

  • @katielee4892
    @katielee4892 2 місяці тому +14

    "In a world where you can be anything, be kind." Clare Pooley

  • @nuriaherreramarcos5999
    @nuriaherreramarcos5999 Рік тому +32

    Really good story. I have used it with my students in Spain to debate about intolerance, ignorance, and the power of empathy. Thank you very much!

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  Рік тому

      Thank you Nuria, that is great to hear. Regards to all your students!

    • @galerights8983
      @galerights8983 Рік тому

      would be interested to join your class!

  • @IDFK531
    @IDFK531 2 роки тому +29

    You don't remember the people you've hurt, but the people you've hurt remember you.

  • @sageikeda4434
    @sageikeda4434 2 роки тому +131

    I like how the director added the mother’s subtle racist remark, “Don’t want you catching germs,” to indicate that Alistair’s toxic mentality at the beginning of the film had been learned, and as the ending showed, it can be unlearned.

    • @nikolakostadinov9830
      @nikolakostadinov9830 2 роки тому +4

      That's genius!

    • @nocolaarssmith8719
      @nocolaarssmith8719 2 роки тому

      to be fair he was playing in a dirty sandbox

    • @nikolakostadinov9830
      @nikolakostadinov9830 2 роки тому

      @@nocolaarssmith8719 Well we only assume it was dirty cuz it's a sandbox, but we don't actually know it is, I mean it looked clean I believe.
      I'm not saying it is, I'm just saying it could be. Plus they are kids, plus they didn't put it in their moth, I dunno it was still a nice movie

    • @Zodroo_Tint
      @Zodroo_Tint 2 роки тому +1

      Not really working. In a world were all white people is racist and adults are smart because they are educated yes, but not all white people is racist and education doesn't make people smart, many modern parent doing the opposite what their childrens need, they don't let the children's immune system develop, they don't bestfeed their baby and so on.
      Yes, I think it is about racism but I don't think it's working. First calling someone in a name what is most representative to their kind is normal, germans were called Fritz americans were called Tommy in the second war, russians were called Ivan.
      Second, many mother is stupid enough to not let their children play in the sandbox for stupid or selfish reasons.
      This story could work better without implementing the white guy was a racist.

    • @nikolakostadinov9830
      @nikolakostadinov9830 2 роки тому

      @@Zodroo_Tint I like the way you think, and I agree with you too. Well sayd

  • @zsu262
    @zsu262 Рік тому +10

    Should be shown in every school across the country. Absolutely beautiful. Treat others how you would want to be treated, with kindness and love.

  • @SMaamri78
    @SMaamri78 Рік тому +13

    I’ve watched so many of these shorts. This one is one of the best, if not the best, that I have seen so far.

  • @cuccicucci4480
    @cuccicucci4480 3 роки тому +150

    Best short I've seen all year. Why didn't I see this before now. These 2 actors were a perfect fit. Amazing tear jerker.👍

  • @waa_baa_kee
    @waa_baa_kee 2 роки тому +82

    When I was in high school, somebody I became good friends with took me to their house.
    When we got there I realized his neighbors house was where my grandma used to live & that he had lived there all his life.
    Him and I actually played together as children and never knew it until we had been friends for a while.

  • @pamlaw1782
    @pamlaw1782 Рік тому +19

    This film brought tears to my eyes. Very moving. Beautifully done.

    • @kgrant3184
      @kgrant3184 Рік тому +1

      Agreed. That was to be my comment also. This is brilliant! ❤

  • @evermoredragon892
    @evermoredragon892 Рік тому +14

    The first meeting with the boys making sand castles put a smile on my face, then in an instant with one sentence from the mother I had a tear roll down my face. This is a must watch short, thanks to Marcus Markou and all involved.

  • @alisdairstraughan6165
    @alisdairstraughan6165 2 роки тому +243

    As a bald, beareded man called Alisdair, I approve of this video.

  • @leeosborne3987
    @leeosborne3987 2 роки тому +19

    That look of discovery at the end when Samir recognizes Alistair and discovers his own actions of compassion may have made a difference in the world...

  • @sanciac8842
    @sanciac8842 Рік тому +15

    The script and the direction are awesome, plus the two actors are great. Masterwork..

  • @aliahmadrehan3102
    @aliahmadrehan3102 Рік тому +13

    we are all tied in the knot of time

  • @SithAssassinOfSkyrim
    @SithAssassinOfSkyrim 2 роки тому +120

    the initial omitting of the first meeting does a great job of building that curiosity, cool idea

    • @Michalis2m
      @Michalis2m 2 роки тому +7

      It all starts in the kindergarten. Parents and teachers sometimes are unaware of the huge responsibility they carry and the footprint they’ll leave on young souls.

    • @jeffreybutler4605
      @jeffreybutler4605 2 роки тому +2

      You are absolutely right Ari's, my father did that to me with the (n) word.I hope he regretted it later on.Thank God it didn't stick.

  • @dannyray9375
    @dannyray9375 3 роки тому +45

    This has 'Karma' written all over it! This is truly a remarkable and extraordinary award-winning short film. This short film is what every human being on the planet needs to see before they die.

    • @adorothyinkansas4392
      @adorothyinkansas4392 3 роки тому +2

      ...early on in life! That way they learn the pattern, make any needed adjustments and implement it early on.

  • @TheLord.IsMyShepherd
    @TheLord.IsMyShepherd Рік тому +14

    WOW! so much packed into 12 mins. How important it is to lead with love, how impactful our every action is and its consequences ,and how there are no coincidences. we should love our neighbors as we love ourselves for real!

  • @euphoria2837
    @euphoria2837 Рік тому +8

    A simple act of caring creates an endless ripple that comes back to you

  • @HunMin004
    @HunMin004 3 роки тому +28

    I believe we are born to love and taught to hate. What an example of that.

  • @chrisfraser9258
    @chrisfraser9258 Рік тому +15

    Its always wise to be nice to people on your way up because you will possibly see them on your way down

  • @simplyshaye1114
    @simplyshaye1114 Рік тому +12

    I love short films that are strong and captivating like this

  • @sacredsoulrising1
    @sacredsoulrising1 Рік тому +11

    Incredible the dance of two souls who were always destined to dance together … truly beautiful

  • @lyricberlin
    @lyricberlin Рік тому +15

    just goes to show that none of us would want to be judged on our worst day. We have all said and even done things that did not reflect our true caring nature.

  • @JamesNYCGuy3
    @JamesNYCGuy3 3 роки тому +21

    I was homeless on & off in NYC for years. This digs deep in me. I was begging for money one day because I really wanted a hot breakfast sandwich and coffee. A guy told me to get the EFF away and get a job. It was loud and I was too embarrassed to stay so I walked away. Then someone stopped me. A few people were telling that man off. Someone bought me a coffee and ham, egg & cheese sandwich. I WAS AN ANIMAL with it! He gave me some cash for food. I was uplifted.
    Later that day, the guy who told me to get a job walked up and had a bag of food. He looked as if he was about to cry. I took it, smiled brightly and said Thank You.

  • @HazelAndreaB
    @HazelAndreaB Рік тому +11

    On our life journey it is SO easy to be kind to people we meet without expecting anything in return. Kindness costs nothing. So we should give it freely. It could change someone’s day or even life. It WILL change yours.

  • @1stSite
    @1stSite Рік тому +17

    So to my understanding this story depicts that, when we are young children we do not undersunderstand what is race, skin color, religion or even germs as the mother mother said to Alistair when taking him home.....for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th meetings they both had egos filled to the core! At least in the 4th meet Sam helped Allister. And when we get older, we don't care about race, religion, or even skin color, as egos seems dead at that point in life.
    This story made me overwhelmed. Why have we forgotten what love is and what it means to be patient.
    Being loving, caring and being patient of all is that gets you going in life.
    Thank you so much for this video.
    I know this short video, which tells the truth should reach all over the world.

  • @litterpicker1431
    @litterpicker1431 3 роки тому +18

    It's impressive that this film manages to realistically portray its central characters over so many stages of their lives. Kudos to the various Sarahs of casting and make up.

  • @lundbeatz
    @lundbeatz 2 роки тому +45

    12 minute emotional rollercoaster. Well done!

  • @danielgrey265
    @danielgrey265 Рік тому +10

    The influence of a parent for good or evil in the lives of their children is apparent.

  • @abudia6403
    @abudia6403 Рік тому +13

    It may be difficult to do but never return hate for hate. It will catch up with you in the long run

  • @CSUnger
    @CSUnger 2 роки тому +22

    "Everyone wants to think about changing the world but no one wants to think about changing themselves" Tolstoy

  • @apricotcookie4850
    @apricotcookie4850 3 роки тому +167

    A lovely, lovely film. A reminder of what humans are capable of when prejudice and cruelty are not running the show. We are better than we allow ourselves to be.

    • @abdulmumin6251
      @abdulmumin6251 3 роки тому +2

      Your right but alot of racism is taught at home

  • @618B
    @618B 10 місяців тому +10

    BE KIND TO OTHERS.
    YOU'LL NEVER KNOW WHEN YOUR PATHS WILL CROSS AGAIN.

  • @fitforfreelance
    @fitforfreelance Рік тому +11

    You know never who you've already run into! In a world where you can be anything, be kind

  • @ddawson100
    @ddawson100 3 роки тому +15

    No idea why UA-cam recommended this but it was the best recommendation in a long time. Sweet movie.

  • @lawrencemaitland
    @lawrencemaitland 3 роки тому +11

    I was supposed to just eat my lunch and carry on working. Now I'm crying. That was beautiful man❤

  • @mrpartyfreak101
    @mrpartyfreak101 Рік тому +20

    SOOOO many people missing the point. Its a cycle. Its about how people develop and how they can choose to break the cycle. It's so subtle in the first meeting, when they were kids. Both of them are incecnt, knowing nothing to hate of anyone, just having fun together. Then the mother takes him way you can hear her say "don't want you to catch the germs," you can clearly see that his hate is a learned behavior and that underneath he has a good soul but it was taited by others. I love the ending, it show the true nature of the white guy, to help and be kind to others, the younger version of himself was one of learned hate. You can choose to unlearn your programming that the message or at least that is the message I got.

    • @ricknaughty1016
      @ricknaughty1016 Рік тому +1

      Your thinking too much into it. The meaning of the story is be kind when u meet someone cause u don't know under what circumstances or when you may meet them again
      Brainwashing and rascism/ islamophbia isn't just from parenting it's also from media/ news outlets and fed to small minded people that need a TV box to tell them how to think, act and what to buy

    • @mrpartyfreak101
      @mrpartyfreak101 Рік тому +1

      @@ricknaughty1016 the creator liked my comment so I'd say I'm thinking just enough. Thanks for your input tho.

  • @rugbynimbus
    @rugbynimbus 2 місяці тому +12

    Sometimes when I'm feeling low, I get reminded "Hey, remember that time you bought that man's groceries?" Years ago I was standing at a checkout, night before Thanksgiving, and the card of the man ahead of me got declined over and over. So I bought his groceries for him. He cried. He said it was the first Thanksgiving he got to have his children over since the divorce. I have no idea who he was or what became of it all, but I hope it made a difference for him. Something we have to be reminded about just might be something another person never forgets.

  • @63mesiken
    @63mesiken 2 роки тому +16

    It’s a small world we live in, treat other’s as you want to be treated.

    • @mouradici
      @mouradici 2 роки тому

      The Prophet mohamed piece be upon him said, "None of you will have faith till he wishes for his (Muslim) brother what he likes for himself."

  • @ccxcreatives
    @ccxcreatives 3 роки тому +22

    When he was asked, "Do I know you?" at the end scene, he knows he remembers him, he doesn't need a word, he just smile instead. That question was the same words he uttered when he found the guy familiar, during the job interview - that scenario suddenly flashed back. The feeling of gratefulness and guilt at the same time, knowing he rejected the same person whom he helped afterwards during his lowest moment. Now, is the one helping him in his fragile state. What an eye-opening story!

  • @orwellhuxley6301
    @orwellhuxley6301 Рік тому +9

    The most precious sentiment of the human condition: love and compassion. Thanks for reminding all of us.

  • @Florianae
    @Florianae Рік тому +10

    So, they are two people who might be destined to be friends. My heart is touched, people will remember your kindness. This film so beautiful!

  • @gamecop2191
    @gamecop2191 3 роки тому +17

    I used to work at an apartment complex and there was a resident that was a nightmare, she never paid rent and she always was bitter and nasty and would call me a racist and threaten to sue me and one time even threatened the office with a “shotgun “ she supposedly had..... she was evicted for that. A few years later I walked into a shoe store and to my surprise this lady was the one helping me. I was instantly caught off gaurd but I could tell she didn’t recognize me. I felt bitter and had the thought “u used to make my job a nightmare now I should do the same”. I didn’t , she was good at her job and friendly. It was a fine interaction. 2 years later I go for an interview at my current job and she’s my supervisor. She hired me on the spot and I recently brought up to her the past. She didn’t remember me at all at the apartment office, she went on to explain her drug and alcohol addiction and how she was at the lowest point of her life back then. She cried and was so embarrassed . The thing is- I also had a past of addiction and alcohol abuse. We get along great now and she recently promoted me . She is doing great as well sober with a child. Life is weird

    • @gamecop2191
      @gamecop2191 3 роки тому

      @@mewho6199 no. I’m glad that’s what you took from the story tho.

    • @OhLatte
      @OhLatte 3 роки тому

      @@gamecop2191 damn, I’m proud of you! If that were me I would’ve been pissed

    • @samybouzida7956
      @samybouzida7956 3 роки тому +1

      beautiful and touching story my friend. Spot on. This goes straight to the heart of this video. Thank you for sharing.

  • @chondominguez6995
    @chondominguez6995 2 роки тому +181

    I learned this the hard way. After burning bridges. Then having to cross that bridge again. Yet it’s gone. Because I burnt it. Now at age 47 I have learned. There is no reason to end things on a negative note. Things can end on a positive note. Be better today than yesterday. Grow as an individual. Be humble. Be kind. Smile. Be happy. It’s a state of mind. Love y’all.

  • @venukisenandi
    @venukisenandi Рік тому +14

    I’m an aspiring filmmaker and this is just so beautiful. Immaculate storytelling and an important message. Thank you for creating this

  • @ginacampbell5127
    @ginacampbell5127 3 місяці тому +15

    Fantastic! Each moment in our life, each decision we make, all comes back around. Love this!

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  3 місяці тому +1

      Thank you Gina! Comments like this make my day

  • @GuroDon
    @GuroDon 3 роки тому +13

    Now that I am in my mid-60s [and still feels like I'm in my 20's] I see how lifes Journey intertwines so intricately and beautifully. Thank you for your beautiful film.

  • @beckv8526
    @beckv8526 3 роки тому +165

    I'm not crying. You have me sobbing. This should be required watching. People aren't born hating. Hate is learned.

    • @maryann7619
      @maryann7619 3 роки тому

      Why do you fall back on hate?

    • @dechannigan2980
      @dechannigan2980 3 роки тому

      Bullshit

    • @yoyashuyo3485
      @yoyashuyo3485 3 роки тому +1

      Hi 😇

    • @lollypopdrop3961
      @lollypopdrop3961 3 роки тому

      BECK, i agree, this should be required in elementary schools.

    • @Yessentuki4
      @Yessentuki4 3 роки тому

      No, every baby is taught to share, tell the truth, etc. Humans fell away from God and only Jesus can make us whole again and give us a new nature!

  • @thursty007
    @thursty007 Рік тому +11

    All I can say is wow!!! We really live in a small world! A short film well done

  • @jackie5046
    @jackie5046 3 місяці тому +13

    I will probably never stop watching this film. As many times as I've seen it it's impact is always the same. One of the most moving pieces of Cinema I've ever seen.

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  3 місяці тому +1

      That's such a lovely message to read. Thank you, Marcus

    • @jackie5046
      @jackie5046 3 місяці тому

      ​@@marcusmarkougreat art inspires❤

  • @sallydoc4439
    @sallydoc4439 3 роки тому +65

    Amazing ... this should be showed in every school classroom across the land

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  3 роки тому +11

      Hi Sally, there are a few schools that do show this to their classes. I know this because a few teachers have emailed me asking if they could show it and we stayed in touch. If any school does screen it to their students then I'm always happy to do a Zoom Q&A with the children about filmmaking and how this was made.

    • @Lipanj92
      @Lipanj92 3 роки тому

      @@marcusmarkou That's amazing !

  • @fanchenworld
    @fanchenworld 2 роки тому +25

    When Samir smiles at the end I couldnt hold up tears were shedding .

  • @courageousartoflove
    @courageousartoflove Рік тому +15

    I love this. We don't know how the love and kindness we give to strangers can come back. It's very well done. Thank you.

  • @laskatz3626
    @laskatz3626 Рік тому +9

    Lucky Alister. He changed his heart.

  • @Andrea-xs4ny
    @Andrea-xs4ny 3 роки тому +57

    This deserves all the awards it's been given. What a beautiful story!

    • @lisakessler2055
      @lisakessler2055 3 роки тому +2

      What a beautiful story. It touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes.

  • @mrb6309
    @mrb6309 2 роки тому +29

    Dude, you got some serious wonderful performances from these actors. They truly made the material come alive.

    • @marcusmarkou
      @marcusmarkou  2 роки тому +3

      They are all really good actors. When the story, screenplay and good actors come together, you don't have to do too much.

  • @mditt7
    @mditt7 Рік тому +14

    Beautiful tragic human story. Bob Dylan's Jewish Grand Mother said to him as a boy "be kind to people Bobby. Because everyone you will ever meet...is fighting a hard battle." Chronicles Bob Dylan