Small Arms (2017), directed by Arman Cole, is a 22-minute drama-thriller that explores themes of masculinity, violence, and mental health. Ethan, a college student receiving threats on campus, decides to purchase a gun for self-defense. In his search for shooting lessons, he meets David, an ex-militia man living off the grid with deep-seated mistrust of society. David agrees to teach Ethan but soon imposes his own beliefs on him, creating a tension-filled mentorship that blurs the lines between protection and aggression. The film delves into how social expectations around manhood can lead to destructive paths, highlighting the danger of unchecked influence and isolation.
Arman Cole’s Powerful Short Film Explores the Dark Side of Modern Masculinity and the Pressures That Shape a Young Man’s Journey to Self-Discovery.
Small Arms offers a unique take on the classic coming-of-age story by dissecting the dark aspects of masculine identity. Inspired by the tragic 2014 Isla Vista shootings, the film examines the societal pressures that drive young men like Ethan to extremes in pursuit of security and belonging. While set against a backdrop of gun culture and conservative paranoia, the story’s true focus is on the complex, often harmful dynamics within male mentorship and bonding. Through tense dialogue, striking character development, and a cold Northern Michigan landscape, Cole paints a bleak but realistic portrait of the effects that societal expectations of masculinity have on mental health and self-perception.
Small Arms, directed by Arman Cole, presents a deeply introspective look into the consequences of toxic masculinity, isolation, and the desire to belong. As a short film inspired by real-life tragedies and societal issues, Small Arms resonates with audiences grappling with similar themes in today’s world.
The performances of Tyler Young as Ethan and Dominic DeVore as David bring authenticity to the film. Ethan embodies a vulnerable, somewhat naive young man seeking validation, while David presents a hardened, enigmatic figure, clouded by his past and ideals. Their chemistry on screen is powerful yet unsettling, capturing the ambiguity and tension in their mentor-student relationship. Young’s portrayal of Ethan’s evolution—from fearful and impressionable to increasingly assertive—offers viewers a layered exploration of what it means to find oneself in a world filled with expectations and judgment.
The film goes beyond a mere portrayal of gun culture; it’s a psychological study of how societal pressures shape male identity. Ethan’s insecurities lead him to seek empowerment through violence, an influence underscored by David’s own beliefs about masculinity and independence. Through dialogue about privacy, distrust of authority, and David’s paranoia, Small Arms uses symbolism to critique the impact of extreme ideologies on impressionable minds. David’s secluded lifestyle, his warnings about “spying” and police drones, and his physical challenges to Ethan symbolize a warped sense of strength that blinds him to reality.
Set in the desolate landscapes of Northern Michigan, the film’s cinematography intensifies the feeling of isolation and foreboding. The cold, minimalist shots of remote, wooded areas reflect the emotional distance between Ethan and the world he’s trying to escape, while the rugged, rustic tones of David’s surroundings mirror his unyielding mentality. The subdued color palette and the intermittent silence heighten the suspense and create a visually compelling atmosphere.
Small Arms is a poignant, reflective piece that balances the thrill of a suspenseful drama with a sophisticated social commentary. It presents an unfiltered look at the consequences of imposing ideals of masculinity, showing how unchecked influences and insecurities can lead to devastating outcomes. By the end of the film, the audience is left with a sense of unease, challenged to think about how societal expectations impact young men and how mental health and masculinity are inextricably linked.
