While many commercials make use of video game-style graphics to assist their narrative, few do so as poignantly as this film for The Children's Society. The piece follows a young boy as his hope swells or depletes according to his circumstances - health bar increasing when he can see a way out of his current situation, and leading to misguided choices when it swings the other way.

It's a deftly observed look at how young people can become caught in spirals of criminal behaviour - how poor home environments or neglect can leave them vulnerable to manipulation. Director Charlotte Regan has done a great job here, inspiring empathy for the young protagonist without over-egging his emotional state. Food for thought as lengthening lockdowns put pressure on families across the nation.

Toyota neatly handle hanging out at a safe physical distance without ever mentioning the word 'pandemic' in this amusing Kiwi ad. Bound partly by their shared love of powerful trucks and rugged terrain, a diverse collection of mates happen upon each other by the roadside and decide to stop for what turns into quite the extended chat.

There's a lovely pace to Damien Shatford's film, as snippets of conversation are permitted to flow throughout the 90" runtime without ever feeling pressured. Combined with a typically laid-back Aussie sense of humour and some fun performances (the bearded old bloke speculating about his own star sign is a particular standout), it's a charming addition to the brand's antipodean canon.

This offbeat short film arrives courtesy of co-directors Jordan Hall and John Margaritis, who somehow combine ‘Grand Theft Auto’ with DIY self-care. What begins as a run-of-the-mill car theft morphs into an oddly moving tale of escapism... and not just from a presumably pissed-off garage owner.

Initially shot like a gritty crime thriller, the film turns bright, airy, and almost soothing once the protagonist reaches the ocean. It’s here where the criminal indulges in an unusual hobby—albeit one recognisable to anyone who's felt like Steve McQueen in 'The Great Escape' recently. Who knows, it may even have a shot at appearing at the next Olympics if social distancing dictates.