Many people look at 'One Last Shot' as just a precursor to 'Trailer Park Boys' - which in many ways it is - and fail to see that there's more to it than what appears at the surface.
I'm surprised at how many people fail to see that this short film isn't a comedy. Sure, there are some comedic moments, and yes, it has Ricky (Robb), Julian (Gary Williams, or, GW) and Mr. Lahey, but 'One Last Shot' really plays out like a slow burning tragedy.
From the beautiful piano melody that accompanies many scenes and sets the tone, and the themes of growing up, moving on, friendship and coming to terms with one's self all offer a great amount of sincerity and heart in just 30 minutes.
The main three all give fine, authentic performances, but it's really Robb Wells who shows just how great of an actor he was at such a young age. He carries this film, and we feel for him, and we care for him, and we want him to be happy because he clearly isn't.
I won't give away any spoilers, but the film has a powerful ending - one that took me aback.
Mike Clattenburg is a truly great filmmaker. 'Trailer Park Boys' is a comedic masterpiece but 'One Last Shot' shows that the boys really had the chops to go on to do more dramatic roles had TPB not worked out.