THE WAITING ROOM deals with the universal desire to find and maintain a union with the right partner and our fears of growing old alone. It explores the plethora of emotions thrown up by a relationship breakdown - namely hurt, anger, and a sense of betrayal. It also examines the sheer joy and exhilaration of meeting 'the one'.
The film is a character-driven piece in the realm of The Squid and the Whale, Lost in Translation, The Station Agent and You Can Count on Me. In other words, it is not an 'events and effects' film. Instead, it is aimed at an audience who want to see something different, more original and more personal than what's available in the big budget mainstream. To see a film that will cause reflection on their own lives.
Audiences will enjoy this thought-provoking film precisely because it investigates aspects of contemporary relationships we can all recognize and identify with. In his characteristic way, Goldby will deal with these serious real-life issues truthfully, but also with warmth and humour.
The film's subject matter suits a digital filmmaking approach as the script dictates a naturalistic and observational style - but not to the point of grim reality. Goldby is shooting on HD Cam, creating strong images through framing and blocking that illuminate the inherent drama. The film is being shot in a cinematic way that takes it out of the ordinary, emphasizing the poetic nature of the piece: the idea that over only a few days, your whole life can change, and something wonderful can happen.
Ultimately Goldby is taking care to make sure that within this 'poeticized reality', the lighting and camera style do not get in the way of the actor's actions and performances. His expertise with actors is well-established and he will ensure that the audience emotionally engages with the characters, as they provide the heart of the film.
