Check out the Cannes Judges’ Reviews of Minstrel vs. Puppet!

Judge 1

Cool premise but a bit repetitive and on the nose. The lead actress does well in both roles and the spoken word v. hip hop deliveries are compelling. However both characters speak in didactic generalities and no real understanding of story or individuality is revealed.

Judge 2

Great use of visual media platform to enhance spoken word.

Judge 3

I would give this a ten if it were directed by a woman. The acting and the lyrical poetry are perfect. The dilemma of women and women of color face is so clear. It also brings forth the battle among women that distracts them from the real fight. GREAT WRITING!

Judge 4

MVP was a solid short film that was very honest in the view that it took. While it did copy Joyner Lucas' "I'm not racist" down to the instrumental played behind the spoken word, it was different enough to be justified. The dual role was excellently performed, and the writing was very well done. The cinematography and direction was quality and helped the vision of the short come to life. Overall a very solid short.

Judge 5

I watched this neat little film, then went back and watched it part-way through again, and I was still asking myself if the same actress really played both roles. i had to go online and research Ms. Bonecutter before I was confident they were both actually her. What an amazing accomplishment. The vocal, physicalization, make-up and costume choices were very, very well done. After several weeks of viewing dozens upon dozens of films, this is only the second 10 I've given for performance.

Judge 6

But even more impressive than Ms. Bonecutter's physical performance of the roles, was the conception and execution of the two points of view. I found myself going back and forth in terms of who I thought was supposed to be the primary and secondary speaking voices of the piece, and empathizing, in turns, with both. And that's evidence of exceptional storytelling.

Judge 7

The directing was strong. Angles and lighting were well-used towards accomplishing the desired effect. Sets were great. Make-up and costume departments are to be commended. I don't see any glaring weaknesses in this piece. Don't get attached to your organizing business Ms. Bonecutter, Hollywood is calling.

Judge 8

Strongly recommend an award nomination for performance.

Judge 9

Outstanding performance and a beautiful original, well executed vision.

Judge 10

Impeccable cinematography. The lightning and the tone and color pallet for each character very well defined. Great job on comparing both of them and great come backs. In a society like the one we live in these days, is important to highlight themes like these.

Judge 11

This is a visual poem that's a bit of a throwback to the '80s and 90's spoken word scene. I like the performance of the speaker who has a presence. The message is also contemporary and empowering. Tech specs are solid.

Judge 12

Beautifully written, shot, and performed. Very compelling to watch.

Judge 13

This is a beautiful piece of work. How knowledgeable is that. So unique. The words are written so accurate and so true. Amazing idea and very different from others. The whole idea of performing one actress as she is talking to herself but in different character gives a lot to think about.