Hey You follows the stories of two men—played by Noel Samuels and Dmitry Spodobaev—who arrange a hookup through a dating app. In just four minutes, the film transitions from suspenseful to terrifying, shedding light on the potential risks of online encounters. The shocking climax unveils a brutal truth: one of the men has been deceived and lured into a deadly trap by a group of homophobic attackers. Based on real events, the film serves as a harrowing reminder of the ongoing violence faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, even in an age where apps like Grindr have revolutionized dating and connection.
How a four-minute short film reveals the harsh realities of online dating for LGBTQ+ individuals.
An Unflinching Exploration of Vulnerability and Violence
Hey You is a gripping short film that explores the intersection of intimacy, technology, and danger. From the moment the two protagonists connect via a dating app, there is an underlying tension that permeates the film. The cinematography—marked by dim lighting and tight framing—enhances this sense of unease, making the audience feel as if they are intruding on a deeply personal and precarious moment.
The film wastes no time delving into its core message: behind the anonymity of online profiles lies both the potential for connection and the risk of exploitation. As the story unfolds, it becomes painfully clear how quickly vulnerability can turn into violence.
The Impact of Real-Life Events
Jared Watmuff’s inspiration for the film stems from the real-life horrors faced by LGBTQ+ individuals globally. He recalls reading about the persecution of gay men by ISIS in 2016, an event that deeply influenced his storytelling. In his words:
“It seems so absurd and arbitrary, and reminded me how the rights and freedoms we’ve gained are in no way guaranteed – and why we need to keep fighting for them.”
The film draws a direct line between the personal experiences of its characters and the broader societal issues of homophobia and violence.
A Timely Warning in an Era of Rising Hate Crimes
Despite significant strides in LGBTQ+ rights, the film underscores that hate crimes and discrimination persist. As Watmuff notes:
“Even in the UK, homophobic crimes have more than doubled in the past five years, so (it’s a familiar saying) but now more than ever we need to stay vigilant.”
This chilling statistic serves as a backdrop to the film’s narrative, reminding viewers that safety cannot be taken for granted.
Festival Recognition and Critical Acclaim
Hey You has garnered widespread acclaim, earning a spot in the Iris Prize’s 2019 Best of British shortlist and winning awards at festivals like the IMDb New Filmmaker Award, QUEER-Streifen, and Sunday Shorts Film Festival. These accolades highlight the film’s ability to resonate with audiences and critics alike.
In just four minutes, Hey You delivers a powerful and unsettling message about the dangers LGBTQ+ individuals face in their quest for connection. Jared Watmuff’s film is not only a cautionary tale but also a call to action, urging society to remain vigilant against hate and violence. It’s a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the complexities and risks of modern LGBTQ+ life.
