Vaccines and viral outbreaks are fresh in the minds of filmgoers, both as real-life events and as popular premises for films. Vax begins with a cold open, with a whole lot of doom and gloom behind its turbulent malaria outbreak. Geoff (Cade Carradine) and Eric (Rico Ross) from Triple Hills Pharma’s research team find themselves on the verge of a vaccine – but there’s an altogether different issue that looms large over the breakthrough.
Writer/director/composer Barak Shpiez underscores Vax with a scathing, powerful commentary on the corrupting influence of profit motives and the consequences that come with placing financial gain above human life. It’s an upsetting and intriguing situation that isn’t often showcased. The actors deliver outstanding performances, with a palpable sense of urgency and desperation that keeps the audience engaged. Caleb Phillips cinematography is equally impressive, with a claustrophobic style that makes the characters feel all the more small and insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
One of the most admirable aspects of the film is its tenacity to convey a powerful message in a short amount of time. In just under 13 minutes, the film manages to tackle complex themes such as corporate greed, the value of human life, and the importance of scientific innovation in the face of adversity. Then again, it also feels like it’s biting off a little more than it can chew on occasion. For an issue so widespread, the story itself is contained in three small locations that don’t give a sense of scale or urgency. Vax is a must-watch for anyone interested in socially conscious filmmaking. It is a poignant reminder of the importance of putting human life first and the dangers of allowing profit motives to overshadow our collective well-being.
