Director Anders Walters tests familial bonds in Turned, a short film depicting the life of young race car driver Kasper and his strained relationship with his abusive alcoholic father. As his father seeks a do-over in life using his son’s body as a conduit; Kasper is too, led into a tumultuous relationship with alcohol; drinking with the sole purpose to ease his troubled mind. Haunted by memories of the past Kasper is left with the decision to chase his happiness or forever live under his father’s control. 

A short film depicting the life of young race car driver Kasper and his strained relationship with his abusive alcoholic father

The invisible bonds connecting family members are strong enough to withstand the worst of betrayals. Walters traces the steady route of loyalty veering into toxicity. Usually, strict parenting arises from a deep love, but Walter’s simulates the twisted side of love; where emotions are used as leverage. When Kasper no longer sought to appease his father’s high expectations; he finally realized the hypocrisy in their relationship; accepting that his father’s selfish intentions were trapping him in a life filled with regret and torment.

Turned is the epitome of a child suffering the consequences of their parent’s poor decisions. Living with his father’s sins left Kasper with limited options; to repeat history or forge a new path. In a moment where it’s believed Kasper would take his own life; he instead abides by his desires. In a way, the previous version of him died the second he disobeyed; reborn into a person disconnected from their past trauma. Walters exquisitely connects the action of racing to life; regardless of the speed or delays in one’s journey the driver is in full control of the final destination; even if at times it appears the opposite. 

Former comic book and storyboard illustrator turned award-winning Director; Anders Walters steadily maintained a prosperous career. Having received continuous recognition from the Academy Awards for previous films Helium and Meter; Turned is the latest addition to his groundbreaking film reservoir. 

Ever the skilful director, Anders Walters brings us a heartbreaking but beautiful story.

Yasmeen Johnson