Wild Card
Drama, Short Films, 03-Aug-2023
Two strangers are brought together by a video dating service. Tipper Newton directs and stars in “Wild Card,” a retro romantic thriller shot on 16mm and set in 1980's Los Angeles. We meet Daniel, shy and soft spoken, as he records his introduction video for a VHS subscription dating service. Intrigued by what he has to say, or possibly how many times he’s said it, the mysterious Toni calls in to arrange a date with Daniel, candidate #56. After a fumbled attempt at catching a movie, the theater being closed, the two decide to drive back to Toni’s. There, poignant truths and avoided realities reveal themselves. In “Wild Card,” Newton achieves a sentimental 80’s nostalgia with an electronic synth score and captivating romantic suspense. -Jinho Myung. Director, Writer, Editor: Tipper Newton. Cast: Billy Flynn, Tipper Newton. Produced by: Half/Half. Producer: Mary Kate van den Berg. Director of Photography: Nico van den Berg. Original Music: Aaron M. Olson.