Hidden 2023
Paul Riordan's *Hidden (2023)* is a poignant 14-minute drama that delves into the fragile boundaries between love and frustration within a family facing an unexpected challenge.
Director: Paul Riordan
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hidden (2023) about?
*Hidden* follows 11-year-old Sean, who returns home to discover his single mother's battle with early-onset dementia has shattered their quiet life. His frustration erupts into a confrontation that forces both to confront the harsh realities of their strained relationship. The film is a raw, intimate look at how illness and resentment can reshape a family's dynamics in an instant.
Who directed Hidden?
The film was directed by Paul Riordan, whose sensitive approach to family dramas brings emotional depth to the screen.
Who stars in Hidden?
The film features Jude Riordan in the lead role of Sean, with Emma Davies and Josie Connor co-starring as pivotal figures in his life.
Is Hidden (2023) worth watching?
As an unrated drama, *Hidden* stands out for its emotional punch and authentic portrayal of a tough family situation. Its short runtime makes it accessible, while the performances and direction create a memorable experience for fans of heartfelt, thought-provoking cinema.
How long is Hidden?
The film has a runtime of 14 minutes.
About Hidden (2023) — A Short Drama That Exposes Family Truths in 14 Minutes
Paul Riordan's *Hidden (2023)* is a poignant 14-minute drama that delves into the fragile boundaries between love and frustration within a family facing an unexpected challenge. Eleven-year-old Sean returns home from school to find his single mother struggling with the early stages of young-onset dementia, a heartbreaking reality that forces both to confront raw emotions they've tried to ignore. The film captures the tension of a birthday gone awry, where resentment boils over into harsh truths—each word a dagger, every silence a scream. Riordan crafts an atmosphere thick with unspoken fears, where the innocence of childhood collides with the harshness of adult realities, leaving viewers grappling with the weight of what's left unsaid.
Starring rising talent Jude Riordan as Sean, alongside Emma Davies and Josie Connor in emotionally charged roles, *Hidden* is a compact yet devastating exploration of resilience and vulnerability. The genre leans into the raw, unfiltered drama of real-life struggles, making it a standout in modern short films. Its brevity doesn't dilute its impact—instead, it sharpens the focus on the universal themes of familial bonds tested by hardship and the courage it takes to face the truth together.