I'm going to have to assume all the dialogue contained in this film was lifted from other movies. Literally. All the characters are dubbed with voices not belonging to them. This is a clever idea and is handled relatively well; however - I'm not sure how it aids the storyline (and I use that term lightly) in any way.
Best enjoyed by fans of bad kung-fu movies or Marylin Manson, Mr. Black is a simplistic tale of good (represented by a female in all-white) versus evil (which is some sort of demon draped in black). Unfortunately, as the film progresses, characters are introduced without development and then immediately killed off. It becomes increasingly difficult to follow the plot, and I began just focusing on some of the photography - which is simply gorgeous and, at times, suitibly grungy (when necessary). The sets and lighting are a standout here.
Director Jamie Heinrich pulls Oliver Stone duty here, constatnly switching between color 16mm film stock and black and white. At some point, the movie appeared to be shot with 8mm - but it could have been my imagination. Either way, it's an uneasy mesh. I'm sure this was for reasons of artistic merit - such as, filming people doing dispicable things should be seen on the most flawed of film (this is just a guess, of course), but it just made the film hard to get involved with. It is, however, perfect for the film festival scene. Average movie goer - beware.
The Bottom Line: It's apparent that director Heinrich and crew have loads of talent. The film includes some neat gore effects and great editing. However, this short came off more as a student project (a VERY professional one at that), or a "look what we can do with what we have" than an actual coherent movie. It's unfortunate - as it has real potential. But what do I know? Maybe the whole thing just went over my head. Either way, I still recommend Mr. Black to the goths out there. As for Heinrich, he should be searching for a Requiem For A Dream type script that best suits his directorial talents (a screenplay which can handle his style without appearing overly flashy).
Mr. Black runs 20 minutes and is unrated. It contains gore, violence and numerous adult themes.