Experiencing Interruptions?

Let Me Be Frank

After some kind of accident, Frank awakens, bandaged and immobilized, in a foreign bedroom. He is then greeted by Isabella who claims to have saved his life. As Frank regains his mobility and memory, he begins to grow suspicious of Isabella. When Frank’s suspicion reaches a breaking point, he plots an escape that has deadly consequences.

  • Benicio Da Silva
    Director
  • Benicio Da Silva
    Writer
  • Botshelo Kgosikoma
    Producer
  • Wian Smit
    Key Cast
    "Frank"
  • Maya-Simone Samdaan
    Key Cast
    "Isabella"
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    28 minutes 42 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    December 10, 2025
  • Production Budget:
    10,800 ZAR
  • Country of Origin:
    South Africa
  • Country of Filming:
    South Africa
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Black & White
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - SAE Institute South Africa
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - Benicio Da Silva

Benicio Da Silva is a South African Film Student of SAE Institute, currently about to enter his third and final year of his Bachelor of Arts in Film Production degree. This film, Let Me Be Frank, marks his first official film festival submission, and he does so as the film’s director and writer.

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Director Statement

As this film’s director, I wish to bring the obscure back to life! (Mind the pun). I want to portray to the audience, subject matter that only may be limited by their imaginations. I wish to engage the audience intellectually; to make them think further. Beyond points of comfort and plausibility. I do not wish to tell, nor show in the case of this film, but rather hint. This will allow for variety in the narratives thematic and literal meaning as per audience interpretation. Let Me Be Frank is not intended to be an “easy-viewing” film, but rather one that keeps the audience’s attention throughout, encourages curiosity, imagination, and challenges societal norms and individual morals. One of the major motivations behind this project is that of nostalgic cinema. Aside from the black and white colour palette, this films’ creation draws inspiration from those who came before. Those filmmakers who, had significantly fewer modern conveniences, dared to still try new methods to enhance the experience of their audiences.