Greg Poppa and Sugey Cruz finish their short film Cold
Movie highlights depression and mental health
By Marquis Lupton
Aired; May 3rd, 2024.
In the emotionally gripping film “Cold,” viewers are plunged into the haunting tale of Carmen, a woman thrust into a perplexing ordeal with high stakes and harrowing consequences. Co-produced and directed by Greg Poppa and Sugey Cruz and brought to life by her compelling portrayal of Carmen, the narrative unfolds as Carmen awakens in an unfamiliar abode, greeted by a cryptic message from her guide, Samuel. The ominous directive grants her a mere 1,000 days to remedy the malfunctioning vehicle in her driveway or face an eternity consigned to purgatory.
As the plot unfurls, Carmen finds herself ensnared in a relentless struggle against the unforgiving elements, her own isolation, and the relentless erosion of her mental and physical well-being. Cruz masterfully captures Carmen’s descent into despair, deftly conveying the character’s mounting frustration and anguish as she grapples with the cyclical torment of her existence. At its core, “Cold” delves into themes of depression, loss, and the enduring trauma of bereavement. Carmen’s journey serves as a poignant exploration of the profound pain inflicted by the loss of a child to suicide, and the agonizing battle faced by a mother striving to reconcile her grief and forge a path forward. Through Carmen’s poignant interactions with her faithful companion, Armando, and the spectral presence of her daughter, Daniella, the film navigates the turbulent waters of grief with raw authenticity and unflinching honesty.
With each passing day, Carmen’s quest takes a toll on her psyche, pushing her to the brink of emotional collapse and testing the limits of her resilience. The film’s stark portrayal of her inner turmoil serves as a poignant reminder of the profound human capacity for endurance in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. “Cold” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the darkest corners of the human experience, inviting audiences to bear witness to Carmen’s journey through the labyrinth of her own anguish. In the end, Cruz’s haunting portrayal of a mother’s unwavering love and indomitable spirit resonates with a haunting poignancy, leaving an indelible impression long after the credits roll.
