Never or Forever (2025) - Thriller [06:50]

Written, Directed, Produced, and Edited by Benjamin Jones

Synopsis: A young man is faced with one of the world's oldest philosophical questions personified: to live for eternity or to live a life not worth living.

Director's Statement

After finishing the first draft of Never or Forever, I immediately felt compelled to make it. I was obsessed with this idea of death vs immortality, and I couldn't stop thinking about it. I'm not quite sure why it spoke to me, I guess I saw myself in Jake, the way he is a silent observer in the decision of his own mortality. He's being manipulated by someone with major responsibilities for her own benefit, not his, and this occurrence is not uncommon in day-to-day life.

Stylistically, I envisioned an over-saturated look and a gritty feel, drawing inspiration from films like JOKER (2019) and Taxi Driver (1976). I believe this look reflects the emotions that the characters in the film are experiencing. At its heart, the film is about making decisions under pressure, and I hope viewers leave the film slightly unsatisfied. It's brutal, and the ending reflects this. The film would have never reached completion without the help of the amazing team I worked with, especially Kit Baker, the cinematographer. Kit basically acted as a producer; his caring attitude and patience with a first-time filmmaker (me) made this film possible.

Directing Never or Forever was a fantastic experience, and I'm honoured to share it with audiences. My hope is that this story lingers in the minds of the curious viewers and connects hearts and minds across boundaries.