THE EXIT PLAN | Omeleto

An elderly woman gets a visit from a government agent in an overpopulated future.
THE EXIT PLAN is used with permission from Angus Wilkinson. Learn more at / angus_wilkinson .
Martha is a widow living out in the remote English countryside. She's also living at a time when overpopulation has strained the world's limited resources, and global governments regularly cull people over 80 who aren't living with family or other caretakers as part of an initiative called "The Exit Plan."
Martha ostensibly lives with her daughter Sophie. But when Zeke, a government official, comes by to investigate Martha and Sophie after a series of missed check-ins, he begins to suspect that the situation is other than it seems.
Directed by Angus Wilkinson from a script written by Ella Cook, this sci-fi thriller short is a fascinating double act of a dystopian narrative that challenges our notions about aging, the elderly and their role in society. Rendered in a pensive, melancholic visual style that's both beautiful and slightly ominous, the story starts -- after an evocative overhead sequence over the landscape of cliffs and sea -- with Martha returning in the morning to her tidy, well-loved home after an outdoor excursion of some sort. She is old, but she is still active and alert. But her seemingly quiet morning is interrupted when Zeke appears on her doorstep, conducting a government investigation.
Zeke's agenda is to check in on Martha and Sophie, but it's also to sign Martha up for the government exit plan. But as Zeke and Martha sit down for a conversation, each party has an objective that's hidden from the other, turning a perfunctory government task into a subtle cat-and-mouse game. The dance between deception and detection is captured in excellently understated but precise dialogue, which builds both tension and character.
It's brought to life by pitch-perfect performances by actors Marcia Warren and Paapa Essiedu, who play Martha and Zeke, respectively, with intelligence and wiliness. Both Martha and Zeke are well-matched as adversaries pretending to be polite, but Zeke's mistake is that he's accepted the government's view on elderly people as soft, doddering and weak -- and the mistake will cost him when Martha manages to turn the tables.
The second half of THE EXIT PLAN shifts registers slightly, as a showdown reveals layers of dark comedy that toy with both Zeke's and the audience's stereotypes of senior citizens. Yet the comedy remains subtle, and it doesn't sacrifice conflict and tension as the narrative builds up to a thrilling, climactic moment when Zeke confronts what "the exit plan" is a euphemism for. Both Zeke and viewers must face questions of who gets to decide who is worthy of life, resources and time, and how. For her part, Martha is determined to reclaim agency and autonomy, and most importantly, to demand being seen and treated as a person worthy of dignity and respect. A demand that is simple and understandable, but made complicated by a world that values utility over humanity.

[@ellac3470]

Hi Everyone! Ella here, writer of The Exit Plan. So thrilled it's connecting with so many of you. I wrote this almost 5 years ago now, and it's scary how relevant it became over the course of finishing the film. Thank you all for watching and for your support! x

[@tonyshortland8812]

First step is to go, cashless society, then their in control

[@zoecarides7944]

Wonderful work, Ella! Bravo! x

[@iguessihaveinsomnia4594]

Ella... Gosh that name reminded me of Ella Hunt my favourite British actor. nevermind that what i'd like to say is your work is lovely and certainly unique, a fresh breath of air as a writer myself with all this predictable story from movies, books and such. I like this one, Keep up the good work luv.

[@brettsalter3300]

Thank you Ella, for persevering and finishing your creation. Collaboration is a wonderful thing, and this particular project seems to have been received extremely well, judging from the comments. I thoroughly enjoyed it, if enjoyment is the correct description. Perhaps 'deep resonation' would be closer to the truth. Thank you again, for the love put into this.

[@habazlambazazathe6th989]

Ella or should I call you Klaus Schwab!? you will eat z bugs

[@cjcorallo5775]

"I'm not a stranger, I'm with the government". The single most sick and frightening sentence that you will ever hear.

[@mitseraffej5812]

You forgot the equally frightening statement “ I’m with the Church”

[@vladdracul5072]

@@mitseraffej5812 Or the Spanish Inquisition.Nobody expects them.

[@jamesbuckingham7955]

Couldn’t believe when I first read that line when Ella (writer) showed Angus and I the script! It was a *mic drop* moment

[@cjcorallo5775]

And people still vote for bigger government till this day.

[@samanthathompson9812]

I work for the government. We're just trying to keep basic infrastructure going so society can function. Just ordinary folks.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Hi Everyone! I'm Angus Wilkinson, Director of The Exit Plan. Really loving reading all the comments and people's takeaways! Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and support short film makers 🙌

[@jayneshort8603]

Well done Angus and to Ella who wrote the script. Thank you

[@missloriparker]

Love when your left in deep thought after watching a omelet, and I was definitely in deep thought.... brilliant 👏 xolori in Seattle hats off to ya!

[@nicholasvanorton7840]

🥂🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@robertgiles9124]

I cannot hear what she says at the end handing him his book...Is it; "Come now...when were done we'll have some cake" ?

[@stephenpain9236]

Good day Angus. I thoroughly enjoyed (if that's the right word...) your work. I was certainly intrigued and moved by it. But I'm not sure it was wise to cast a black actor in the government/baddie role and all white actors as the oppressed/goodies. I fear that some viewers might wrongly ascribe to it some sort of unintended sub-text.

[@calebklingerman7902]

“I’d like to think you’re not heartless, just gutless.” Brilliant line, applies to most people I think

[@stevestewart007]

As a 72 year old disabled woman - who still has a husband an two sons who will care for me when I become completely unable - I appreciated this short film. When she walked out of the room saying she was going to call her granddaughter, I was thinking, if it was me, I would hit the guy on the head, and WHAM, she did. Independent old minds think alike. While not a homicidal maniac, but I'm not going to let a government "helper" take me by force.

[@karenbolton9526]

I’ve already got my exit plan involves gin pills and nice swim on tropical beach

[@SoSeN88]

Good for you Eve!

[@AlphaPizzadog]

Plus, it does get rid of one person, just like the original plan

[@Kate303x]

I'm 42, and I had the same thought.

[@lolhihi3506]

​@@YeshuaKingMessiahI don't disagree but god dam man, punctuation.

[@jamesbuckingham7955]

James (Producer) here! So amazing to see the response so far! This film spent two years on the festival circuit around the world before we were finally able to show it online. Ella (writer), Angus (director) and I are all in Sydney these days and it inspires us to keep making more films seeing the response from you all! Thanks for supporting young film makers

[@Sandy-tj4wn]

Thank you for backing this film. It's so relevant today. I'm on SS, and healthy. Still can't find a job and I thought for sure I'd get hired before the holidays. Rent, food ⬆️ and unable to supplement

[@bonniedunbar6717]

​@@Sandy-tj4wn My rent has been increased twice. I have started to pack up because the next raise I will have to move. I'm on Social Security and scared. Blessings to you and all of us just hanging on.

[@juneelle370]

This was a great film and an example of what art is meant to be. The world is filled with meaningless distractions posing as art but void of meaning. In these times especially, we need films that warn. Thank you for producing 💜

[@ilovesuisse1]

Hi, loved the film. I lived in Sydney for quite a few years.

[@lisastickytuna8668]

Great film! Can’t help thinking that COVID was Johnson’s exit plan...

[@patriciainportland5567]

As an older woman I already sense other people's consideration of my importance... to them, to society. At a time of so much abundance we still have that idea of scarcity and "only the strong survive" belief system. The Exit Plan is happening right now in the US via our economic, health, and housing systems. It's a slower push to kill off our elders than the one in the movie.

[@goodgame3374]

Yeah there were quite a few people who shamelessly said, "I'm not vulnerable, why should I have to wear a mask to protect old people"

[@LeahIsHereNow]

It’s shameful how we treat elders in Western society. We give those who paved the way for our success about as much consideration as we would a bag of trash and it’s sickening. Pretty much the same way we treat the mentally ill.

[@rosariabirrane2373]

@@goodgame3374 Maybe because the mask did not protect anyone? As the good doctor Fauci repeated more than once? Meh...

[@vladdracul5072]

Well, any country that values physical over mental fitness is doomed in the long run. Bye bye, U.S.A.

[@VictoriaRoseTravel]

@@goodgame3374 That's because masks have been proven to not protect anyone, let alone old people. You need to do some research on the flood of scientific data around the damage done to ALL people over the last 3 years.

[@chigozieubah5816]

This was a remarkable sci-fi drama. No bells and whistles; just a raw expression of the 'human' experience. An absolutely amazing performance. "...Sophie stayed as long as she could. She has her own life to live"

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Sometimes restrictions, like the budgets for short films, create the greatest creative freedoms. That's how I think we managed to zone in on the human experience and not get carried away with what the 'future' looks like. We decided the future would actually be regressive rather than all shiny and metal. Heavily inspired by Children Of Men

[@angelenathomas-scruggs4308]

I agree very deep movie

[@kati-ana]

The way he looked at her when she opened the door, with such disgust and scorn was utterly repulsive. I have three 90 y/o neighbors who are just as young mentally as any 30 y/o and fit as most 40 y/o/. For anyone to look at them as dispensable simply because of their age, anyone just thinking such a hateful thought is sickening. It's our grandparents, parents, eventually us and when it's us will we be so eager to "do our part"?

[@theninjacat7200]

Good observation and yet this type of event happens everyday...not just ageism but racism and sexism as well. There are people who look at you and assume you're 'less than' just because your skin is a different color, your religion is different from theirs, you don't have the same financial resources, your hair color is different (i.e. blondes have never had a reputation for being smart). The list goes on.

[@gluecksdrache2054]

It is great that you communicate the main theme of the slightly exaggerated plot of this film. "dispensable simply because of their [...] , anyone just thinking such a hateful". Did you realize that this was exactly the style of communication during the great sale of the medicin5 fluid. Most of the population were tagged as non essential workers without the right to leave home. My company would have faced penalty of 500 Euro per person and day if not complying by measures of the Brussels government.

[@GothGuy885]

@@theninjacat7200 as an Older goth male , who is of an alternate religious beliefs, I have experienced a lot of this. but I don't let it get me down. I am at the age where I don't give a fine fork in people like me or not. as I say "I am here for my existence, not theirs!"

[@JatPhenshllem]

That's not disgust, that's finding what isn't expected

[@johnmarx3919]

Only if we've been brainwashed into believing this evil idea...

[@videos4mydad]

"anyone over the age of 80 who isnt cared for by relatives is exited" - well i am not sure if i have ever seen a more effective policy to promote having as many kids as possible. this policy seems to belong to a world with a shrinking population.

[@CristiNeagu]

Nothing new. Canada has been doing this for a while now.

[@rebeccalynn7795]

doesn't look like she needs to be cared for. more likely they mean paid for.......

[@bjb7587]

Most advanced countries are now seeing population decline. China in big trouble after failed One Child policy. Japan. USA, western nations. Only Africa is growing.

[@devilkitty6725]

If too many people is the problem you'd think childless adults would be one solution. We aren't the ones having children who have children who have children...we're the end of the line by choice. Here in Canada they're working very hard to get us used to government assisted suicide, so this isn't that far off.

[@freewheelburning8834]

@@CristiNeagu yup... especially the Cree natives there

[@TracyPerson1]

Dealing with my mother’s illness and my father’s dementia has made me think a lot about this topic. My parents got to determine much about their exits. They planned for old age. As their daughter, I was glad and continue to be glad, that their choices are carried out by people that LOVE them and NOT the government.

[@sophiabeatty3270]

Great work you all!!! I’m keeping my bat close.

[@TracyPerson1]

@@sophiabeatty3270 😂

[@calldwnthesky6495]

i don't want my self proclaimed masters to come for me in this way but i do want them to give me an option to leave this world at a time of my choosing - without the excessive physical and mental anguish that so many of our seniors go through these days. AND because i KNOW i won't live forever and i want to minimize the suffering before i go, i want to be able to connect with other people - when the time comes - who are also ready to pass on. a big part of having a comfortable passing would be not having to go it alone... to have other people take the pass at the same time with me... so we can reassure each other it's alright... because it IS alright... it's part of being human. it's a path we all take... and even though i'm an atheist i do believe in some kind of afterlife. no care on whether it's eternal or not. just a place on the "other side" to share with the ones i cared about in this life... a place of better understanding and peace... even if finite. i may end up going with my parents when their time comes

[@Andrea-xs4ny]

Phenomenal script, acting, directing...everything. I'll admit that, at first, I thought Martha had killed all the missing people. I was so glad to see them, united, alive and fighting for their cause and their lives. I hope I never see a dystopia like this.

[@carlosonliones202]

Open your eyes then!

[@safffff1000]

It is here now with the US gov. paying hospital, doctors and nurses to murder so the can collect their 100k covid death payments

[@TechBearSeattle]

I figured she was running an underground railroad to get elders to a safe country without such a policy.

[@Andrea-xs4ny]

@@scottjet5308 That program is voluntary, of course. I, myself, am considering it. History (so far) has shown us that civilizations have become more inclusive of the sick, handicapped, elderly, and others, and less likely to impose death upon them. For thousands of years (and probably still in some less-visible groups of people), these people, including babies, were thrown off cliffs or left out in the elements to die. We don't know what the future brings, but such films as this one help inspire compassion and opposition to such things. That's what needed to keep such things from happening.

[@Dog.soldier1950]

1:6 deaths in Canada is euthanasia

[@mffmoniz2948]

Fantastic little story. I grew up with people of all ages around me. The older people were not just someone you had to take care of. They often too care of the children, kept you company, advised you with their life experience and knowledge. Nowdays, it's very difficult to keep the same kind of inter-generation living...

[@marjorie6573]

Our elders are the wisdom keepers, story tellers that help us understand who we are.

[@tayachting6345]

@@marjorie6573 Too right. And, a tyrannical society can't tolerate the wisdom keepers. All that was must be replaced. Look at how older/seasoned teachers are bullied out of the teaching profession, and replaced with younger (and cheaper) yes people. The new generations already have totalitarianism (some refer to it as 'woke') embedded in them.

[@Nicole-fp6gh]

When I grew up our parents made us help out the elderly. And us kids got the benefit of their wisdom and example.

[@LilLadyAy]

People have become too busy for one another.

[@karengarling8035]

I loved being around older people growing up, they had so much to share, memories, advice, wisdom. Also they are the generations that advanced society to this point in time, all the while, getting older. When we cease to want to cater for the aged, who next in society do we target , because they are a drain on society.😮

[@georgerohrberg4279]

'I'd like to think you're not heartless, just gutless." great line.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Ella certainly wrote some killer punch lines throughout the film!

[@stevejordan2840]

How our society treats and thinks about the seniors among us is something I have studied in the past. We are a people that pushes for more young people in all walks of life with the idea of "fresh ideas" and "creative energy" while putting seniors "out to pasture." We have no idea the wealth of experience, accumulated knowledge, and wisdom we are throwing away. We need these people for their insights. Most every society in the past were wise enough to honor their elders while we throw ours away.

[@calldwnthesky6495]

i don't want my self proclaimed masters to come for me in this way but i do want them to give me an option to leave this world at a time of my choosing - without the excessive physical and mental anguish that so many of our seniors go through these days. AND because i KNOW i won't live forever and i want to minimize the suffering before i go, i want to be able to connect with other people - when the time comes - who are also ready to pass on. a big part of having a comfortable passing would be not having to go it alone... to have other people take the pass at the same time with me... so we can reassure each other it's alright... because it IS alright... it's part of being human. it's a path we all take... and even though i'm an atheist i do believe in some kind of afterlife. no care on whether it's eternal or not. just a place on the "other side" to share with the ones i cared about in this life... a place of better understanding and peace... even if finite. i may end up going with my parents when their time comes

[@mightyx5441]

This is a mostly white american generation thing, its from the hate towards boomers. If not idk what it is

[@fatercoelho7476]

it is always frightening how easy it is to murder someone when it's not your hands getting dirty

[@sandrataylor3723]

I'm 66 and have some health issues but I still contribute to society and my family. Seeing this video clip has reminded me of how a lot of seniors are treated here in America, like second class citizens. Those of us that are less fortunate in finances are usually forgotten by our government, especially of late. Help is being cut or denied every time you turn around. How does the government expect seniors who can live on their own to pay the exorbitant prices of basic needs on just a social security check alone? I do get SNAP benefits, a whopping 23.00 a month. What does that buy? A carton of eggs and a loaf of bread maybe? I'm a diabetic and have had to cut my meals down to one to two a day. My doctor would have a hissy fit if he knew. I've only had the heat on two days this winter, when it was in the teens at night because of the electric bill being too high if I use the heater. Forget the so-called heating bill help out there as you have to go through hoops and ladders just to apply and then it's a game of hit or miss. I feel like our government is doing a slow genocide of not only the seniors but of the poor and the homeless too. Sorry for ranting but this video just struck a chord with me.

[@credenza1]

It is outrageous that you could be treated this way. It is all being done to appease the middle class posers who want to feel virtuous about "saving the planet". None of them will suffer a day's discomfort.

[@donnaw2868]

OMAD ( one meal a day) is a technique within intermittent fasting that some people practice, to improve their metabolic health. I hope that if you are eating only OMAD or two, that your blood sugar numbers are improving. It's not pleasant to cut back with food (and heating fuel). I just hope that eating less frequently has a positive side, if it must be done.

[@sugarsnap1000]

I hope you’re ok Sandra and get the help and support you need, x

[@Fido-vm9zi]

That's going to stop

[@AB-fx7tg]

This was freaking amazing!!!!!!! Such a creative premise and the acting was superb. I love how strong Martha is….and I love how the old people came together and made a community with each other❤❤❤

[@trublu2556]

Just remember Hells Angels have to retire to at some point..😜👊 come and get us if you can

[@ixchelssong]

​@Tru Blu This reminded me of a movie where Clint Eastwood was the crotchety old neighbor with a shotgun. 😂😂😂😁

[@Chickenlegs41]

@@ixchelssong Are you referring to Gran Torino? If so, that was a good flick!

[@cocasal001]

The movie presumes that the government agent has a heart. The reality is that when this moment comes, and it will come, they will simply put out of their minds the evil they are committing and justified for some government sponsored good.

[@ixchelssong]

@@Chickenlegs41 Yep, that's the one! 😁

[@andreasdesigns]

Very powerful. I loved how the agent was forced to try and follow the horrible law and couldn't do it; also, that he had to have a meal with them. It was a way for him to see all of them as human beings still able to take of themselves and each other.

[@aardvarkbiscuit2677]

He only had two shots and if he had taken them I'm sure he would have been over a cliff shortly thereafter

[@calldwnthesky6495]

i don't want my self proclaimed masters to come for me in this way but i do want them to give me an option to leave this world at a time of my choosing - without the excessive physical and mental anguish that so many of our seniors go through these days. AND because i KNOW i won't live forever and i want to minimize the suffering before i go, i want to be able to connect with other people - when the time comes - who are also ready to pass on. a big part of having a comfortable passing would be not having to go it alone... to have other people take the pass at the same time with me... so we can reassure each other it's alright... because it IS alright... it's part of being human. it's a path we all take... and even though i'm an atheist i do believe in some kind of afterlife. no care on whether it's eternal or not. just a place on the "other side" to share with the ones i cared about in this life... a place of better understanding and peace... even if finite. i may end up going with my parents when their time comes

[@nova4005]

Wow, I'm teary-eyed and stunned. We are in a time where ideologies are bringing out the banality of immorality/ evil in people. Those brave people made the government worker see what was really happening - he was helping hunt people down and commit murder, but he couldn't do it with his own hands. They were brave and compassionate the same time, helping save him, helping open his eyes. I love the ending where he hung his head in shame, and she looked at him with that strength and compassion. That combination of qualities can come from a life long-lived.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Very much what we were hoping to convey! Thanks for the thoughts Nova

[@calldwnthesky6495]

i don't want my self proclaimed masters to come for me in this way but i do want them to give me an option to leave this world at a time of my choosing - without the excessive physical and mental anguish that so many of our seniors go through these days. AND because i KNOW i won't live forever and i want to minimize the suffering before i go, i want to be able to connect with other people - when the time comes - who are also ready to pass on. a big part of having a comfortable passing would be not having to go it alone... to have other people take the pass at the same time with me... so we can reassure each other it's alright... because it IS alright... it's part of being human. it's a path we all take... and even though i'm an atheist i do believe in some kind of afterlife. no care on whether it's eternal or not. just a place on the "other side" to share with the ones i cared about in this life... a place of better understanding and peace... even if finite. i may end up going with my parents when their time comes

[@adityarathore3532]

Thank You @nova4005 for your wonderful comment. I see you used a term 'banality of devil's which was also used by Hannah Arendt in her book 'Eichmann in Jerusalem'

[@V-Smith]

Phenomenal!! Frightening plot, but absolutely phenomenal execution! The Protagonist is so witty and charming yet she is not to be crossed, the plot twist so mind bending, the victim becomes the victor while the villain nearly becomes a victim of the tyrannical laws that he was sent to enforce. The climax had us all rooting for Martha, the underestimated victor who conquered tyranny!! And she was hilarious 🤣

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Love your reaction Valerie! Thanks so much for watching!

[@kettch777]

Makes you think. I remember a Soviet dissident who wrote that all that would have been necessary to end the tyranny in the USSR would have been if the men sent to enforce the brutality, the tyranny, what have you, had been taught to be as afraid, every day, of doing their job as the people were terrified of them doing it to THEM. If when they came for you, people who had nothing to lose had grabbed whatever was at hand, knives, clubs, bottles, whatever they could and fought BACK and killed some of them on a regular basis. Sooner or later those men wouldn't be able to do their jobs due to sheer terror of not coming home. It was their belief in their own invulnerability--and the acquiescence of the people they came for--that allowed it to go on like it did for so long.

[@augusttorres2943]

What happened to the granddaughter

[@V-Smith]

@@augusttorres2943 She was never there, perhaps she never existed at all!

[@V-Smith]

@@anguswilkinson6633 Thank you! And I thank you for sharing such a wonderful yet frightening short film! It is truly a masterpiece!!

[@cya2163]

I wonder how many years from this being a reality we are...

[@denisegregory9115]

Not too many I fear...im 63

[@StuartOliver83]

Not many if we go by the speed of what they’ve done in the last 3 years😂

[@louisaisthankful4603]

I've heard this is already happening in Can ada.

[@rebepage]

About 40 done past, sorry to tell you.

[@typetersen8809]

This is already in the works. Euthanasia.....which the so-called "dying with dignity" crowd like to push.

[@nn3514]

Hi from Canada. I felt this during covid when I heard doctors suggesting if there were too many in hospital they would have to select who to save. I suddenly thought even though I did the vaccines and followed the rules, some kid who did not would get my ventilator. We all heard that Italian doctor say anyone over 60 was left to die of covid so they could save the younger folks. We also saw all the elderly left in the group homes to become infected and die. Families could have taken them home and kept them safe. Anyway, I retired early as I felt no compunction to stay on and work for the country. Oh, and I DID work for federal government and I agree. Great movie. Right to the point and very timely.

[@MsGrandunion]

I get what you are saying, but I also feel that this was a different situation. During the height of the Covid crisis, there were only a finite number of resources, be they ambulances, ventilators, doctors, etc. The numbers of victims outweighed them, and it became apparent that not all would get the treatments needed for them to survive. Nurses and doctors got sick too, (I'm an ER nurse and I lost two colleagues to Covid), so the resources dwindled further over time. In any "major incident", be it a pandemic, an explosion or biological warfare, those at the front line have to allocate patients into categories. Those with a fighting chance get the resources and will likely survive. Sadly those with the most severe life-threatening conditions would take up resources in vain, that could be used elsewhere with success. So they are categorized as "unsalvageable". Its a horrible word, and its a horrible decision for anyone frontline worker to have to make, but its the reality. This film was a different and far more sinister situation. There was no immediate pressure on resources, and no need to cull like that. It was a callous Orwellian scenario, based on the perception of "usefulness", and yet somehow it could happen.

[@drivethrupoet]

As a mother I find it very selfish bordering disgusting that someone over 70 would want a very young person to die so that you may live. Doesn't matter the circumstances.

[@apok1980]

@@drivethrupoet That is a very dangerous road to go down. I feel as though protocols are set in a way where you as an individual are not compelled to make sacrifices. I’m 40 and if I earn my way to old age, I don’t want to unceremoniously be added to a category of not worth it. As such, yes age should be considered in times of emergency and limited resources. But it should only be considered based on if you can recover. If two people arrive at the same time with life threatening conditions, the health care provider should make considerations only base survivability. If both are survivable, then it should literally come down which wheel on the gurney crossed into the emergency department first. I think if other considerations start playing in to effect, there is a very real danger of considering social, economic, racial, and other backgrounds which can’t be good.

[@drivethrupoet]

@@apok1980 I agree with you. And I said what I said.

[@katyaflippinov9197]

It's called triage. Medical Personnel do not have infinite resources, energy, time, means and equipment. Those who can survive are treated 1st. It seems callous, but if others who might live die b/c you chose to treat those who will almost certainly not survive, what is the point? Many people who were Medical Professionals at the peak of Covid have quit their jobs. Fewer people are going into Medicine now, at least in the USA.

[@artistjoh]

I love how such a small set can create the illusion of a wider world. Great writing, cinematography, directing, and acting can transform a little idea into an epic story.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Love this observation! The real challenge of any short film is always budget and really ensuring you have a great script with great actors goes a long way to world building!

[@donmiller2908]

I read a story similar to this by Larry Niven. In the story medical tech had advanced to the point where any organ could be transplanted with no chance of your body rejecting the organ. If you needed a new heart, lungs, spleen, liver, kidney etc, all you needed was money. Your life could be extended hundreds of years by simply replacing organs that have failed if you had the funds. People with vast wealth also have power and they went about insuring the death penalty was given for more and more crimes until even petty crimes like littering or jaywalking carried a death sentence. That way, when someone made a mistake, which was just a matter of time, they would be sentenced to death and their organs could be harvested to be used by the rich.

[@bjb7587]

They already claim our sweat and blood. The rest of our bodies in wars over resources and power. The natural world. We're all expendable.

[@devilkitty6725]

That's actually happening in China, only they don't bother with the fiction of crimes being committed. There are youtubers talking about organ selling in China, if you look around.

[@poodledad806]

What book was that?

[@frankconley6321]

@@devilkitty6725 actually China is already killing off their old people with certain "viruses". Somehow their elderly are dying at extremely high rates....

[@donmiller2908]

@@kalk5845 - If people who have wealth and power could live for hundreds or thousands of years by taking your organs they will find a way, you know they will. It's as sure as the sun rising tomorrow.

[@ladyg7796]

Great storyline; brilliant acting… I loved how Margaret insists the government worker do his job but do it by looking directly at the faces of all those who were nothing more than numbers on a spreadsheet. His sense of decency and humanity finally set in. Well done!

[@melaniejerrils3671]

I gotta say. If in her shoes any of us might feel the desperation to do something like this. I've always held great respect and love for the elderly.

[@markfirmin7748]

I used to joke with my Dad that when he got to 80, it would be “ This way please, just through that door, thank you. “ What with digital currency, digital I-D, 15 minute cities, WEF dictates, WHO mandates. What you have created is not too far away from what might be coming in reality. Really well done and brilliantly acted.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Thanks Mark! What’s crazy is we shot this in November 2019 before anyone had even heard of Covid! Have never forgotten reading about hospitals being overrun and having to prioritise younger patients who were more likely to live.

[@paulmerritt2484]

@@anguswilkinson6633 Only to find out the hospitals were not overrun at all. Thank you so much for this film.

[@tayachting6345]

@@anguswilkinson6633 Good work here! I will certainly mention this when I get my blog The Dark Page going. You captured today in a fantastic way,.

[@tayachting6345]

@@paulmerritt2484 Wasn't someone prosecuted for taking pictures of empty covid centres and hospital wards?

[@jakepullman4914]

​@@paulmerritt2484 As a nurse working one of the overrun hospitals, I disagree with your assessment. Things were different all over but where it got bad, it got REALLY bad. I don't know how you could equate an attempt to save lives with what you just saw in the video. I worked my ass off trying to keep people alive.

[@harisdiz.5817]

first class acting, in my eyes. Well done, Angus.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Thank you Haris! Truly a collaborative effort on this one with an incredible cast!

[@Dagger_323]

A fantastic short film with an incredibly powerful, disturbing, and increasingly relevant message that more people definitely need to hear. Great acting and great storytelling.

[@yesterdayitrained]

Indeed!

[@paulabrown6840]

The ageist young people don’t know yet that inside we don’t age...the soul is ageless...they’ll know soon enough.

[@bjb7587]

"Ageist young people" is an unnecessary and inaccurate insult. As you imply in your last sentence, they are ignorant of this because they are young. I was no different at that age, and likely neither were you.

[@Marchant2]

This is how a movie short should be done. The acting, the dialogue, and, most of all, the story ends satisfactorily and isn't slammed shut in order to make the whole thing short.

[@pvtimms2]

Brilliant! Every time I thought I had it figured out, i did not! The acting, the photography, the writing were all brilliant!

[@MonkeyMind02]

Excellent short story. Recently there was a Yale (I believe) professor that proposed this idea- that the old should be exited under the excuse of a sustainable future. How far some of us have sank.Chilling.

[@2btpatch]

Brilliant. Wonderful to see the people take charge of their lives so proactively. It’s a sad fact that this scenario is a possible future.

[@ey67]

Not to distant future

[@seosoniaingriselli]

This was brilliant! Should be submitted for awards anywhere and everywhere!

[@jamesbuckingham7955]

Thanks so much! We actually did pick up a dozen awards around the globe over the last two years The comments and support we are getting here are just as special to me ❤❤❤

[@yesterdayitrained]

@@jamesbuckingham7955 Keep it up! Keep going! The most dire problem in the world today is our collective loss of humanity. Many people see themselves solely as independent beings. Yet we all are connected by our humanity- which has been tossed aside. The loss of our humanity, our empathy, our willingness to truly listen to others- has taken all of us to a very bad place. The message in this film is clear, true, and powerful. Onward! Again, just brilliant!

[@jayneshort8603]

I enjoyed every second Martha and friends had strong and determined plans that were in place they stood united.

[@bryanrudelich1319]

This was very well done. Kudos to the director, writer, and performers. I love how the dystopia is presented in a completely normal and recognizable safe and domestic setting. The Brits can serve a civil cup of tea no matter the circumstances. Reminded me of Never Let Me Go.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Never Let Me Go was a huge influence on how we treated the design of the world! Great observation! With limited financial resources when making a short film we had to come up with a logic that allowed us to still live within a known environment. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@Marianne_C_O_Art]

Well done. Particularly relevant after the recent worldwide health event and the attitude shown to who is "more dispensable " than others.

[@yesterdayitrained]

Agree. Beautiful job. Those in our society who are happy to allow the ‘dispensable’ to die- they don’t have any ‘dispensable’ people in their lives. I do- I and am the better for it!

[@maaz322]

Morelike why should the entire world shutdown for people who aren't working and already quarantine themselves in their homes anyways.

[@meg2042]

Remember, they used Midazolam in nursing homes.

[@jessicahay9305]

Where do you people find this stuff? Do you make it do you buy it do you have people submitting stories? I have never never seen any kind of channel of any kind of video better than the stuff omeleto puts out. It's always amazing it's always breathtaking

[@angelapastorius2377]

Yes, I agree. I've watched a few and I am now a firm Omeleto Fan!! 👍👍

[@adriennebrailsford6291]

I love the phrase “you people.” It sets up the following to be so aggressively divide with a potentially negatively charged charge lol. What coms next is a smack of sorts. Glad yours was a round of applause

[@zirilli3]

Twilight Zone

[@sclarinet9088]

@@adriennebrailsford6291 what a weird comment. You're gonna give a round of applause to someone NOT being racist? Don't praise mediocrity especially when not deserved.

[@adriennebrailsford6291]

@@sclarinet9088 don’t know how you got there but, ok. Clearly you are weird for making that entire thing up.

[@DavidKerley]

As someone in his twilight years, I found this excellent short film strikes a deep fear-cord. Brilliant writing, directing and acting. Thank you.

[@daveweller9579]

I'm not a stranger. I'm from the government .That's scary.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

My favourite line in the whole film!

[@afakespace]

I swear this would be my mom and her friends...from church lol

[@RadheKrishna-ri3xg]

Brilliant. Marcia Warren is a fabulous actor.

[@glennparker5516]

The moral of the story is " Don't let the Grey hair fool you, we still kick ass". Great job cast and crew. Heck here in the states we have a super senior in the white house jack.

[@rebeccalynn7795]

no we don't smh. white house has a joke....

[@crystalcole888]

​@@rebeccalynn7795 No, White House had a joke. He caused an insurrection, and then got evicted.

[@bjb7587]

​@@rebeccalynn7795 so much hatred. Hurts you more than anyone else.

[@rebeccalynn7795]

@@bjb7587 oh yes the old man's hatred is hurting everyone here.... except his handlers.

[@rebeccalynn7795]

@@crystalcole888 keep drinking that kool aid.

[@Totalchaos0228]

I love elderly people, most are still as lively and brilliant as ever and deserve to be treated with all the same dignity as any other person ❤️ 3

[@videt7459]

Every component perfection; writing, casting, acting, directing, editing, the whole lot. A true gem.

[@janecartmale2884]

This just popped up, so as a senior I watched it. I’m so glad I did, it may have been short but so so powerful!! The acting was brilliant my only worry was how close we seem to be getting to a situation like this. I hope I would be like Martha.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

I don't know how youtube's algorithms work but I'm really glad this found its way to you, and that it struck a chord with you! Thanks so much for watching and sharing your thoughts! 😊

[@cathyheston3029]

I had an involuntary laugh when she wacked him😂

[@bella50008]

I thought Sophie was in the barn tied up and she was going to put the agent out there too. This was marvelous!

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Love where people's imagination takes them when you leaves things vague for a while!

[@dianaroach3093]

Don't know how I got here. Great acting. Love the fact that the older people stood up to him.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Don't know either but so glad you found us and loved the film! Thanks for watching Diana.

[@shyhrk]

I had my hair stood repeatedly while watching this, this is crazy good and interesting. I'd like to see extended length, but then again I think this one is almost perfect and extending it might ruin the story. But it's just so good I want more.... 🤣 Once again, excellent film, love it so much! Very well done, recording wise, video wise, acting wise. Not 100% perfect but 100% full of charm. 🥰

[@Brooklynlife1000]

In your eyes. I would like to see you play the part. 🤣

[@anguswilkinson6633]

I'll take 100% charm over 100% perfect anyday. Thanks for watching and have loved reading your thoughts! 🙏

[@mikebasil4832]

Excellent short film with a great deal to say. Especially about never underestimating our elders. Thank you so much for making and sharing it.

[@polarbearhero9803]

Loved the lead actor. She was so powerful. No messing with her! A great short film that made its point without confusing the audience.

[@concernedvoice7135]

The sad thing is that it is not far from the truth of our future if we allow it to happen.

[@shockmarkets7384]

If you're from the government, and you've watched this, take note. You see how easy it is? Have a nice day.

[@annfarmer9704]

Standing ovation to you! Well said!

[@CristiNeagu]

Take note? Canada has been running the Medical Assistance in Dying program for quite a while now. This isn't "in the distant future". It's present day Canada.

[@PrograError]

@@CristiNeagu ain't that just if you volunteered and wanted? it ain't a full fledged program like this film showed, you know. Even without these kind of program, families already had to made these kind of choices when family is in serious medical problem with no to extremely limited outlook for recovery, like "calling the plug" or even paramedics when the injured is "black" tagged as them are incompatible with life due to trauma or injury.

[@CristiNeagu]

@@PrograError Canadian paralympian Christine Gauthier was offered MAiD after requesting a chair lift for her home. The government in Canada is already using this as a way to get rid of people who are too much trouble to look after. From here to requiring it is only a very short step. How much resistance do you think it's going to meet considering that most people aren't even aware MAiD is a thing the government is doing?

[@shockmarkets7384]

@@PrograError You're a government worker, right? You're just here to help. Nothing nefarious, you just want to help. After the last few years of governments intervening, co-operating with non-governmental organisations (WHO), co-operating with large corporate entities, all in the name of the greater good, but in the process killing millions, haven't you seen enough yet, to show you that governments, and their cronies can't be trusted? Seriously, do you not have eyes to see, The Powers That Be want you dead?

[@lowrider81hd]

I have such a hard time understanding the dialect, but just the body language alone is amazing. The disdain the government employee is showing towards the old lady is something else. Very well played.

[@mizb.9170]

I feel it 😢at 66 even when I’m out and about at times with complete ignoring faces all around.

[@ZayithyahYisraal]

In the name of 'Sustainability', excellent, sharp message execution with a heart-piercing ending! How uncanny the gov't is trying to classify themselves now as non-stranger..

[@carmelbrain7399]

frightening

[@mysmirandam.6618]

How can a short make me feel so much?

[@susanbrennan5511]

Approaching my 60th birthday my husband soulmate died 13 years ago. This is powerful. Thank you.

[@tylernason7797]

"Im not a stranger, Im from the government" sent chills through me.

[@j.jehannablondeau925]

Wow, what a powerful story. The ending really shows the truth of what matters, that we are all here to share resources and celebrate living. Excellent film.

[@bmc348]

The way they looked at each other at the end is what got me..... Unfortunately this type of thing is already creeping into the minds of policy makers. It may not be too far off before we see it unfold in this way.

[@pauldavey]

OMG my father died a week ago, a month before his 89th birthday, through natural causes (to be confirmed) This short really hit home to me. This film was just brilliant, mind you with everything that is happening in the world at the moment, war, earthquakes, floods etc can't see the Exit Plan happening for a while yet. Great story line. Great acting. Well done all involved.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Paul, thank you so much for watching, and it really means a lot to hear it struck a chord with you at a time of person grief for yourself.

[@backcountyrpilot]

BRILLIANT! Hoping my 82 year-old retired school teacher Mom will understand this!

[@tubularfrog]

Wow, that was powerful. The young man was confronted with what "the policy" really means when he would have to carry out it's mandate. His humanity overcame his allegiance to the state. Such is the fate in the collision between ideology and reality. This was also seen in "Fahrenheit 451". BTW. In that unfortunate world, I would volunteer to live with her so that she could continue living.

[@fractalign]

My neighbour is almost 93, I should play this too him, so he can have a good laugh !

[@richarddunn9286]

Unsustainability is not a threat, greed is.

[@carolbradley4845]

Outstanding! Thank you! From a 62 year old from Texas! ❤

[@elliegreen4738]

I wouldn't have opened the door to him, it's too dangerous and it's frightening when unwanted callers stick their foot in the door. Later. Now that I've watched it all and seen what a fantastic film it was with a delightful twist and superb acting, I understand why she opened the door to him. Looking forward to seeing what happens next.

[@recoveringmytruth8162]

BRILLIANT!!! I loved the part when she cocked the gun... She came with ALL THE SMOKE!!! There is so much WISDOM we can learn from those who have LIVED. BRAVO!

[@andyduty100]

This short film should be made into the feature length film. It's absolutely beautiful in the acting of Martha, the story, everything

[@anguswilkinson6633]

That would be the dream! Hopefully we can get the funding for it!

[@decab8292]

Excellently written. In a society that is moving in this very direction with Euthanasia being implemented in some countries across the world. It truly hits home on who will carry out the act of taking another's life. Who gets to decide on an individual basis of who is to be "Exited" It's all well and good having good intentions but I hear the road to Hell is paved with them. Keep opening the eyes of people. Thank you.

[@ImNotaRussianBot]

Euthanasia isn't a bad direction if it's voluntary and decided with a free and stable mind. Just because you believe life is sacred or some other religious-based view doesn't give you the right to take someone's dignity away in their final and most desperate hours. I cannot imagine the level of torment and pain I would have to be in to see that further living is just not worth the cost. And you do not get to tell someone that they can't end their life, because at the end of the day our life is the only thing we really have.

[@decab8292]

@@ImNotaRussianBot If an individual chooses to take their own life to escape their suffering is understandable to me, but it is a long way from taking another's. However I don't see it as a religious issue but rather a moral one. The question comes down to, Is it morally ethical to take the life of another if they are not deemed to have the ability to decide for themselves ? This is my view personally on this subject.

[@JohnBrown-ff6ez]

*DIDN'T SEE THAT COMING!. PHENOMENAL!*

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Love the all caps and bold enthusiasm for the film! Thanks for watching 🙏

[@julianwalls1077]

Fantastic film I was talking to my partner only today that I thought the govt had a plan like this for us when we get older!😀

[@christinebeames712]

The jabs some took will help this along

[@dan.lespect]

It made me drop a tear when the guy was pointing the gun towards her. I don't know how and why but thank you for making me feel something.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Man, reading comments like this just make all the effort of making a short film so worthwhile! Love that it struck a chord with you.

[@kaybee4132]

As I grow older and watch my eldrers grow older (and pass on), I notice the lack of empathy and value placed on their lives, and the increasing press of reality that I'll soon be in this same place. Value people at all stages of life. Great short film. 👏 👏👏

[@amandachallis5649]

Been sometime since I have left a comment! This, this was really something! Loved it! Thanks for sharing! Simply, “Wow!” Felt myself cheering for the old woman to “do something”, and then, “Yes!” Excellent acting, writing and overall production! ❤️💙! Special gem!

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Love reading this Amanda! Love that you barracking for Martha just before it gets hectic! 🙌

[@maryh7134]

Love this movie. I work with senior population and it’s unsettling, in the least, to see how the older people are the easier it for them to become invisible or irrelevant. Well done.

[@loisgerber4721]

Bravo, well done! You provide a very solid case for the sanctity of life.

[@kristastubbs9610]

I really thought Martha was going say, " As I said, Zeke, you're gutless." When she took the gun back from him, after he couldn't shoot anyone. I really enjoyed this short film. Very thoughtful and left enough to the imagination to stew on when the film ended; what's next for the seniors, what will Zeke do now, what method does the government use on the people to 'exit' them, what do they do when people fight back, are there steeper consequences and also since I doubt that Martha's band of exit avoiders are the only people that feel that way, how widespread is the avoidance and how can it sustain without it escalating to harsher measures? So kudos and well done.

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Hahaha would be so brutal if she did! Love the questions about where it goes next. These are the things we are asking ourselves now as we look to develope into a feature.

[@LittleFrenchHen]

Wow....this was scary, sad, brilliant and funny all at the same time! Amazing....

[@Godrules1111]

If this is supposed to be the future, the timing is not too far off!

[@LittleFrenchHen]

@@Godrules1111 I know, right?! That's what gave me the chills.....

[@lebonnetdespatriotesnet]

It will happen in a close future. Climate changes militants will use this to "save" the planet. Remember a guy named Maurice Strong, who did the climate conference in Rio in 1992 was talking in the '70 about a license to get kids. He was closed the Club of Rome and the long past eugenics the Rockefeller Foundation which are still active right now.

[@annfarmer9704]

I Love her!!!! Go gran! Nerves of steel! Amazing! I hope I have even half of her spunk at that age!

[@TheFlyingRaptor]

Amazing performance. I love how she turns the tables on the government man and humanizes the very people he is signing up. She doesn't allow him to hide behind his euphemisms and ideology but exposes him to the raw barbarity of his actions. Brilliantly done!

[@hydraxisfrimon9785]

Marvellous Marcia Warren! I had the privilege of working with her in a theatre tour many years ago, she is always compelling and inventive to watch, and seems to be getting younger!

[@anguswilkinson6633]

Isn't she just the absolute best! Privileged to work with her is certainly how I felt!

[@TheNexusChan]

Why is Omeleto not making Hollywood movies?! The ones where I don't have to see the same exact celebrities every single time! Good actors who can absolutely crush their roles

[@rapunzel39]

If Omeleto goes Hollywood, I will stop watching.

[@lillymay3632]

Fantastic short film. I see so many parallels to what has been happening over the past few years. Great acting too!

[@TheParadiseParadox]

Very prescient considering what is now happening in Canada with elderly and disabled being invited to take euthanasia. During COVID a lot of elderly were shut away, supposedly for their own good. The other side of it is, the old folks are the most likely to have seen something like that before, and know that it means no good. There was a time when people were shown respect just for the fact of being old. I used to think it was a silly tradition. Now I think those norms were there for a very good reason... perhaps they will be again

[@gomezaddams4347]

“I’m from the government. I’m here to help.” Fun film and the lead actress did a fine job. It was pretty obvious to me what the story arc would be, but still I liked it.

[@nbriez-c5914]

This is a terrifying thought, but that woman is a G

[@glennparker5516]

Triple OG

[@kittyk.klandasions7008]

I'm seriously holding I tears.

[@davidyates551]

Modern society throws the old in “Go Die Homes”. A vibrant society would embrace their old folks & learn from them. My fondest memories was spending every evening with my grand parents. They taught me manors, ethics, hard work & how to be a real man. I think of them every day & remember the lessons of life they taught me.

[@tayachting6345]

IN the states, a lot of folks have that mentality. The people I sometimes have to refer to as parents have that attitude. If someone has a limp, it's the "oh, you NEED to be in a nursing home" routine.

[@toad4ever103]

I can't believe she let a stranger in. I don't even answer the door. She got him in the end.

[@zeezee6995]

Great job showcasing the value of life. Seniors are so often neglected and disrespected by family and society.

[@drindy5166]

This was Fk'ing fantastic! The acting was top notch and the story just amazing! Wow 🔥👊🧡🔥

[@glennparker5516]

The big screen seems to have lost creativity but the small screen is sometimes overwhelming with the imagination.

[@drindy5166]

@@glennparker5516 💯% 🤘

[@christopherborsellino2268]

Excellent! I would not be surprised that this is where we are going.

[@mickd6942]

Didn't know who marcia warren was until a month ago when i watched the Not going out Halloween special and here she is again in this fantastic short film , what a brilliant character actress she is .

[@anguswilkinson6633]

She is truly one of the greats and it was a dream to get to work with her!

[@rickyglass9684]

I’m not an older person, but I am disabled, and I feel seen by this short film because I too know what it’s like to be perceived as a burden, and expendable. I’m so glad this film is amplifying an important message. Thank you.