It’s material that has been tread and retread for years, but his perspective was unique and very authentic. Originally, the idea of developing a film set in the addiction and recovery world was brought to me by an acquaintance. Yes, it’s finally 2021, but some people need more than a new year right now. It may not be the most uplifting subject matter, but if you have someone like Cameron in your life, “Cake Day” serves as an important reminder to keep that person in your prayers and check in on them. These performances are strong enough to convey what an addict’s state of mind is like and Thomas, who also edited the movie, puts it in sharp focus during a key sequence that quickly cuts back and forth between Cameron’s brave front and the isolation he feels, physically and internally. His sponsor doesn’t show signs of suspicion, but one gets the feeling he has seen the struggle many, many times throughout his time with NA. Cameron’s struggle is internal, as he puts on a positive front to everyone around him.

It’s the kind of short that could also work as a feature, but writer/director Thomas knows all the key moments to depict to help it work at only 15 minutes. This short film is a snapshot of an addict’s life, beautifully shot in 16mm by Liam Mitchell and given a haunting score by Jeremy Wallace Maclean. During this time, Cameron has to make a choice about whether or not to tell the truth about his relapse the night before. As his moment approaches, we hear others give their stories of addiction and struggle. He somehow is able to drive himself to his meeting where his sponsor, mother, and several other NA addicts await his arrival. When we first see him, he looks severely hungover and drained of any life force.

“Cake Day” tells the story of Cameron (Cameron Crosby), who is about to get his five-years-of-sobriety celebratory cake and chip at his Narcotics Anonymous meeting.

Piece of cake short film watch