“standby” is a short film, a comedy/drama about Jerry (played by Reed Birney), a quiet and dispirited gay middle-aged actor, who works as a standby (understudy) for an off-Broadway show. Facing financial woes and questioning his art, he spends the day in rehearsal with the stage manager and his bored and uninspired fellow-understudies. At curtain time, when the lead actor calls-in sick, Jerry is thrust into the star’s dressing room and a whirlwind of last minute preparations: makeup, costumes, and quick notes from Glenna, the leading lady (played by Kelly Bishop).
The curtain rises and, on cue, he walks onstage into the blazing lights to face not only an expectant audience, but also the possibility of a personal and artistic triumph — or failure.
Although this story is specific to an actor’s life in the theater, it has a universal theme. It’s about striving for excellence in anonymity, the desire to share your gifts, to be appreciated, to be seen. Everyone has had the experience of sitting on the sidelines. Having to take a backseat while watching another move forward. These experiences can make us question our own worth, our talent; but if we’re called on, if it finally becomes our turn, it can be personally rewarding to step up and deliver on our promise and potential.
By the end of the film, we’ve seen what all the rehearsing, backstage work, and preparation goes toward: a work of art played to an appreciative audience. “standby” is a Valentine to the Theater.
Learn More: https://www.robertgomes.com/standbythefilm/