Written, produced and directed by David C. Murphy, Bait is a thought-provoking piece on the consequences of con-men.
Murphy launches us right in at the deep end as a woman recounts an interaction with a door to door salesman that left her feeling terrorised. The tactics of these salesmen often involve being manipulative and conniving as they take advantage of vulnerable people – especially the elderly – trying to sell products at an over inflated price. They prey on the slightest weakness, using sophistry to talk people into buying things they may not want, need or can even afford. In the case of the woman at the beginning of the film, she has been left distraught by an interaction with a salesman who became aggressive when she tried to decline his business.
As a result of the scams, a hidden camera type TV show is hoping to catch one of these salesmen in the act to provide evidence. Alistair Douglas has been hired by the TV company to go undercover in an arranged meeting with a man selling mobility aids. Alistair seems nervous as the woman from the TV company gives him instructions including a phrase to say to effectively end the sting operation: “I’m sorry to disappoint you. I can’t commit today.” At this point, the host of the show will make an entrance to confront the salesman and provide a “shock” moment for her segment.
When the con-man arrives, he’s very pleasant. He takes an interest in Alistair and his life, gathering information to “help” him. In reality, the salesman is simply sniffing out the most effective ways to manipulate his way into a sale. On offer are various pain management products. The salesman recommends a vibrating mattress topper for Alistair – one that will not only reduce his pain, but prevent it from getting any worse. All for the small sum of £1600. When Alistair doesn’t want to commit to a sale right away, the man becomes unkind and aggressive, using the personal things Alistair shared about his daughter against him. At this point, the TV host uses the earpiece to suggest it’s time to use the safe phrase and end the confrontation. But Alistair has other ideas.
A clear and direct film that focuses on a real issue affecting communities. John McQuiston as Alistair is subtle but passionate. He claims the role with conviction. Sasha Macpherson as the TV host is a compelling almost second villain in the film. Although her heart is in the right place wanting to get evidence against these criminals, chasing the story could potentially come at the cost of recognising the effect it has on the victims. Ronan Doyle as the salesman is as slimy as they come. He executes the sales pitch with shocking accuracy – something anyone who has encountered a door-to-door salesman will recognise. Glynis Wozniak provides an exceptional depth of emotion to the film, especially considering how brief her appearances are as the woman at the beginning and end of the film explaining how she was treated by a salesman.
David Murphy directs with flair and sensitivity, driving audience emotions with a well-founded confidence. A fine example of why we need short films.