Two Strangers Who Meet Five Times by Marcus Markou

Two Strangers Who Meet Five Times screened at the following festivals throughout 2017 and 2018 - winning the following awards.
Follow me on Twitter at
/ marcusmarkou
IMDB info here:
www.imdb.com/t...
Los Angeles Film Awards
Paris Play Film Festival - WINNER BEST SHORT
LA Shorts Awards
Mindfield Film Festival, Albuquerque - WINNER BEST SHORT
San Luis Obispo International Film Festival - WINNER BEST NARRATIVE SHORT
New Jersey International Film Festival
Chandler International Film Festival
European Independent Film Award
Jaipur International Film Festival
Beaufort International Film Festival
Irvine International Film Festival
San Francisco Independent Film Festival
Sedona International Film Festival
Boulder International Film Festival
Newcastle Film Festival
Taos Shortz Film Fest - WINNER PEOPLE’S CHOICE
Omaha Film Festival - WINNER AUDIENCE AWARD FOR BEST SHORT FILM
Norwegian International Seagull Shortfilm Festival
SHORT TO THE POINT International Short Film Festival Awards - WINNER BEST SCREENPLAY ANNUAL AWARDS
Beeston Film Festival - WINNER BEST DRAMATIC SHORT
Glass City Film Festival
Maryland International Film Festival -WINNER BEST SHORT FILM
Sunscreen Film Festival - WINNER JURY AWARD FOR BEST SHORT FILM
Julien Dubuque International Film Festival
Arizona International Film Festival
Solar Cinema Malta
Heartland Indy Shorts Film Festival
Self Propelled Short Film Festival
Newport Beach Film Festival
Ocean Coast Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film & Video Festival
Sioux Empire Film Festival
Hoboken International Film Festival
The Long Island International Film Expo - WINNER BEST FOREIGN SHORT
London Greek Film Festival
New Media Film Festival - WINNER AUDIENCE AWARD
Prescott Film Festival - WINNER JURY AWARD, BEST NARRATIVE SHORT
Kiev International Film Festival
Woods Hole Film Festival - WINNER BEST SHORT, DRAMA
SouthSide Film Festival
St Albans Film Festival
WorldFest-Houston International Film & Video Festival
Mexico City Independent Film Fest
Blue Whiskey Independent Film Festival - WINNER BEST NARRATIVE SHORT, DRAMA
Indie Street Film Festival
Dinard Film Festival - WINNER AUDIENCE AWARD
Manhattan Short Film Festival - WINNER (Gold Medal)
International Short Film Festival of Cyprus
San Jose International Short Film Festival - WINNER
Vasteras Film Festival
Byron Bay Film Festival
Royal Starr Film Festival - WINNER, BEST FOREIGN SHORT
Birmingham International Film Festival

[@marcusmarkou]

For two years we were doing 20 or so views a day and I was really happy with it. But in the last three weeks this has blown up because people are liking, sharing and commenting. So please do keep liking and sharing this. It means so much to us all that people see this film. Thank you for all your beautiful and kind comments. And I know lots of schools are playing this to their students and I am very happy to do a Zoom Q&A with any classes, anywhere around the world. You can find me on Twitter twitter.com/MarcusMarkou or email me via www.doublemfilms.co.uk

[@phoenixpersonified3484]

Can you please add English subtitles? Would much appreciate it 🙏🙏🙏

[@historias-aburridas]

Me encantó! Gracias por hacer un filme como este. Sería espléndido que tuviera subtítulos!

[@xkimopye]

And well deserved too, can only imagine it will become much bigger than the current 200,000 views. Well done.

[@marcusmarkou]

@@DebOnTheWebb Hi Debbie. I need to do this. Sadly, my Instagram account is only used for ironic purposes. And I'm wondering whether I should find someone with a big following that resonates with the film and get them to share it. But yes, will investigate!

[@marcusmarkou]

@@phoenixpersonified3484 Okay, yes. I will look at doing a version that has English Subs... I am about to go shoot a feature film in June and its full on. But let me put this on the list.

[@Rosebud100]

I went out of my way to help someone who had lost their luggage on a flight from Spain to Glasgow. I was 18 years old. A few years later, I went for a job interview and the young man whom I had helped that day at Glasgow Airport, offered me the job on the spot! Through this job offer, I eventually ended up working in London and the company sent me to Gibraltar on a business trip where I met my English husband. We eventually married, moved to Madrid and had three amazing kids. I live in a lovely house with a swimming pool and I have been very happy… all because I stayed on after my shift had finished to help a stranger who was very distressed about his lost luggage. You never know who you know! My first meeting with the stranger was in 1977.

[@joanneweiss3864]

OMG your story should be a short film too! I'm so thrilled for you & your story moves me deeply. Bless you & your family in this new year💖🥳

[@Rosebud100]

@@joanneweiss3864 Thank you. Happy New Year.

[@anmoljain2794]

This was really inspiring ! Hope you have a good day ahead :)

[@sergio-xs1wq]

I believe detiny, fate

[@Bella-gj6wc]

You just never know, how your life touches others. I was in my early 40’s ending my long term first marriage (separated), and was finishing my last year of my bachelors degree. One Sunday morning (as a “reward” for doing my homework), I allowed myself to play Euchre on MSN game zone. I had already planned a leave of absence from my long term job, to pursue my masters degree in Kentucky. At the time I lived in western Canada. I clicked on a table of 3 players waiting for a 4th player. Out of hundreds of tables I choose it at random. My partner in the game, lived 5 mins from the university I planned to attend for my masters degree. We stayed and played most of the day (it was a Sunday) as partners . During the course of the day I found out he was the custodial dad of 4 kids, whose wife had deserted him with. His parents were helping him, so he could work full time. He’d been living 90 minutes away from his kids for 4 years, by the time he “met” me. I thought “here’s a man who stepped up to his responsibilities”, and had family helping him. I could use a friend, if I got accepted to university, and he lived less than 5 mins from campus. We had a long distance relationship, for a year, while I finished my undergrad. By that time, I was madly in love, and knew I would marry him. God works is strange ways. I finished school; sold my house on a handshake; received a year of severance to leave my job; sold almost everything I owned; moved to a new country; married him; took my masters degree on a federal grant; helped him finish raising the last two of his four kids; and was blissfully happy X 10 years. He passed away, very suddenly, following a relatively small surgery, and left me more money through life insurance that I knew he had. IF a tarot card reader had told me, everything “looks great until year 10, and then he’s going to pass away”, I would have still married him, to have the 10 years we had together. One of the boys I helped him raise, thanked me “for coming into their lives, and being with his dad at the very end, because he was sure my presence helped his dad transition”. I never in a million years thought the kids I’d help him raise would cleave to me after his passing, but they have, and I’m so grateful. So, sometimes, you just have to take a chance, listen to your internal voice, and be kind, because it’s always the “right thing to do”. God takes us in hand to show us “the path” we need to be on. You sometimes just have to trust him and “let go”, if the things you thought were important. Good luck to everyone, on this journey we call “life”. ❤️❤️

[@AnthonyMiyazaki]

You never know when you'll cross paths again. And again. And again. So make each crossing a kind one.

[@AnthonyMiyazaki]

By the way, fantastic work on this Marcus, from start to finish. Innovative and well-constructed!

[@Trystannenoire]

❤️

[@davicslobodan5934]

200% Truth

[@kennymos9007]

@@AnthonyMiyazaki sometimes kindness comes in harshness....

[@dustindegagner8523]

@@Cyberbanditmx That's incredible. ❤

[@duanesantos8138]

The subtle way the mom grabs for her kid when they met the 1st time and said "... don't want you catching any germs." shows where the guy got that type of mentality from. Racism is taught unfortunately. GREAT short film!!! I'm going to watch it again right now!

[@marcusmarkou]

Thank you, regards Marcus

[@Saviero-m22]

you do catch germs in a sandbox though, that's like the number 1 spot for that. I get that the film tries to make a point about racism but I don't see it reflected here.

[@spontaneous09]

“So you see… we’re not just telling stories, we’re changing lives.”

[@linhtruong4832]

I like how it ends with the prospect of them going to the park together - a park is where they first met as children.

[@guysome3263]

That detail makes it even better. Very perceptive!

[@l.kirichenko6175]

Great observation.

[@patjenkins3402]

My father once helped a woman with a flat tire in near our home southern NM. He recognized her accent and asked if she was also from Pennsylvania. Turns out that they were in elementary school together over fifty years ago. You never really meet a stranger.

[@marijanetarot9843]

Ever.

[@gav-ce5cm]

That's amazing

[@alamaamosa3801]

The ironys n life ,what your 1st perception of people ,I met this guy who was an enemy, obnoxious rude we have become best mates,yeah he still rude.Im his best man at his wedding my speech started with how we met and 2 have the honour 2 give an account of our friendship which left the crowd n tears and laughter...happy ever after

[@yoyashuyo3485]

@@alamaamosa3801 who knows life can change upside down! One must treat others as he wants himself to get treated. Have a great life all☺️

[@johnfrancis4090]

kinda like when you make a "sound", Silence is broken

[@supernova11711]

This was just so well done on so many levels. When the mom pulled her child away saying she didn’t want him to “get any germs”...that’s when it really started. The beginning of the corruption of a beautiful, sweet boy. It was a hard lesson to undo and it nearly broke him but with one astronomical show of kindness and forgiveness and belief in him, he was able to open his heart back up. He was able to do a 360 and become the beautiful man that young boy was always meant to be. We need to teach our children love and kindness, not hatred and division. Not only for others but for their happiness as well. Hatred will rot you from the inside.

[@juliahartshorn2473]

I think that the mum comment at the sand pit is a good illustration of the ambiguity of our communications in our day to day lives - The mum's intention may be related to the idea of germs in a public sand pit, and not as a racial slur, the sowing of alienating seeds. How we hear and interpret are as important as what we say. I like this short film very much, it speaks much of human communication and relating. ❤️👍🌱

[@diona5370]

Doinf a 360 means he didnt change lol

[@supernova11711]

@@juliahartshorn2473 I just assumed that that was meant to be the message based on the rest of the film...as he grew up to be a racist.

[@supernova11711]

@@diona5370 180 then. Think most people got the gist of what I was trying to say.

[@diona5370]

@@supernova11711 im just pullin ya tail. Thoughtful comment your was, the video was beautiful

[@Jerry-k4n]

Many years ago leaving the airport I started to drive home. It was snowing and miserably cold. There was a young man poorly dressed, hitchhiking near the airport. Traffic was heavy, but because of the way he was dressed and looked nobody would pick him up so I went back and stopped. I asked where he was going and it was about 40 miles away. He said he didn’t have any money for transportation. I drove him to his mother’s house. About 10 years after that my car skated into a ditch. I was drunk.A police car stopped and I thought I was in some real trouble. He never asked for my license and simply ask where I was going. He said he was going to drive me home about 30 miles away. On the way he said you don’t remember me do you and I honestly didn’t. He said I’m the guy you gave a ride home one nasty snowy night. He took me to my house. Now, fast forward another 30 years and I’m 78. For the first time your video just sparked that beautiful memory. I thank you. It made my day.

[@jpch8814]

It's amazing how some talented people can fill 12 minutes with so much emotion, themes, and deeper meanings while big 2 hour movies and millions of dollars amount to pure trash.

[@yeokati7945]

That's exactly what I thought!

[@ritawing1064]

Spot on!

[@skali_skali]

So true

[@farwakauser6060]

Hahahaha

[@soylentcompany5235]

You just gotta find the right movies. Most people dont watch movies because of their deeper meaning...

[@estebanruiz1715]

The irony of life in twelve minutes. What a masterpiece. Bravo!

[@KREATE2779]

Yes, it is definitely a master piece

[@__Rizzler__]

BRAVO 4-19 ON THE WAY

[@TerryFreak389]

I’m in here with tears 😭 😭💕💕

[@abdulmumin6251]

Mind blowing man what did i just watch. Heart mind emotions everywhere so touching man

[@anuradhaperera3802]

@@TerryFreak389 me too😢

[@benstroudmusic]

This film proves you’re not the same person you were ten years ago. Anyone can change. Even for the better.

[@solutionquickie1569]

yes they can but they could pay for their actions

[@akizmetkat999]

No man ever steps into the same river twice.

[@ChosenByJC]

It certainly suggests that we’re capable of change…

[@brodylockley3141]

@@akizmetkat999 that’s makes no sense to me what are you trying to say

[@vihansubramaniam3593]

@@solutionquickie1569 They should pay if its immediate. Nobody should have to pay for something they did over a decade ago (unless its something that had a huge impact)

[@startidewizard]

Ok this video tripped me out.. 8 years ago i was 19 and homeless in seattle, hooked on heroin and selling it just to get by. I feel really weird outright saying this (drugs made me the worst version of myself) i had pulled a lady into an alley and robbed her for her wallet and credit cards... 2 years later im sober and have my own place, dealing with all the guilt and trauma that drugs and homelessness bring. I had a new job and with my first paycheck i went out to the city to get the homeless whatever they needed that day. All honesty, one of the women i approached asked if i could get her diapers, baby wipes, some water ect. I come back from the rite aid and immediately recognized her as the woman i had robbed a few years prior... my heart absolutely fucking broke and all i could do was hide my shame and cry. to this day i advocate for and work with the homeless and troubled youth to show them a brighter way. Kindness is everything and we all can get lost at times. Some a little more than others. Show compassion to everyone and to yourselves 💜💙

[@amandatyler4324]

Goes to show even criminals are humans.

[@xqxxy686]

You're about the same age as my step daughter. I haven't seen her in many years. Last I heard she was homeless somewhere. I wish I could helped her.

[@ednapuckett1042]

God bless you! Prayers to continue to be blessed & a blessing.

[@kathryndemille5321]

@@startidewizard you're a truly special person. It's so hard to overcome those circumstances and I'm so happy for you. I'm an older person and have been through some stuff as well. I believe learning to forgive myself was the hardest bit, and still work on it as needed. Bless you for what you do.

[@brasileirosim5961]

@startidewizard Thanks for sharing your story, addiction is a horrible thing. I work in a rehab clinic since 26 years. Two days ago I met a guy who was in the clinic 10 or more times. He is clean since 10 years. I was very happy to hear this.

[@TheSouthIsHot]

There are a lot of lessons here. 1. Don't be mean to others. 2. When you're mean and experience the consequences, don't blame others. 3. When someone is mean to you, don't seek revenge. 3. Being mean to someone who was mean to you, just because you can, doesn't make you a hero. 4. Acknowledging that you were mean and deserved the consequences will grow you into a better person. 5. Humility will grow you while arrogance can destroy you. 6. Helping others, rather than hurting them, will bring joy.

[@moniqueengleman873]

Very good. 👏👏👏

[@OttrPopAnimations]

tyyy

[@bryanrobie4376]

It's nice to know that there are beautiful people out there still in this crumbling world in which we all live

[@mychief]

Every time, the person on the receiving end is the only one to remember. Whether you are being nice or being abusive, you'll forget but the object of your action will never forget.

[@mychief]

I have found this true in my own life. Where I've treated people the way they've treated me but even they have forgotten what they did. I've also found myself on the receiving end of the treatment.

[@cottawalla]

I noticed that too and thought how insightful of the script writer to ensure that the act of kindness was genuine selflessness, not motivated by a desire for atonement with just that one individual. Edit: I'm referring to meetings numbers 4 and 5.

[@the_real_lajos_toth]

So true. So wise.

[@Goose2001]

Makes you wonder how many people you've met, more than once.

[@c1inward346]

I met a depressed clown more than five times near my house... does that actually mean something?

[@OmniGuy]

Seven. Seven people.

[@meesbeijer6614]

It’s more a message than a given I think..

[@edwenferraz802]

I remember one that a meet two times

[@edwenferraz802]

She is a girl and I know today she is completely diferent. Maybe someday we can meet a third time

[@andreasullivan2419]

Life doesnt run in a straight line. It circles back on itself more often than we know. DAMN GOOD MOVIE!!

[@hanumm9938]

..because it should guard against the danger of being tread into the wrong path in its evolution at every moment.

[@MrRGBTV]

Never burn a bridge. You may need to walk across it yourself some day. Very very well done.

[@patriciacole8773]

My mom tells me that. Thanks for the reminder.

[@oldvet7547]

Absolutely true. Never, ever, burn a bridge.

[@TheBigHoax]

Sometimes the bridges you burn light your way - rather: never be an a**hole to anyone…

[@TaniaHegger]

A old proverb says...be nice with the younger, the beggar and the old man ...because at some point of your life you could be all of them...I love it 💓

[@terriewood4623]

So true ❤

[@jl5464]

the first meeting was really difficult. it just proves that the majority of hate and bias is taught to our children, and that starts the theft of innocence from our youth. absolutely beautiful film.

[@entertainmentbuzz944]

I don't think that was some prejudice in their firsr encounter. I personally thought her mother said he might get germs because of the cold or something. You might be right tho

[@jl5464]

@@entertainmentbuzz944 I believe I'm correct, it would explain why the film maker waited so long to show the first meeting. still, it's all up for interpretation. ☮❤🅰️

[@UncleJoeHikes]

The bigotry I saw in my youth wasn’t from my parents. It was from my peers. It’s easy to blame parents, and often correct to,, but I typically saw goodness and fairness in my childhood friends’ parents I didn’t see in them. So you have to ask where is that learned?

[@jl5464]

@@UncleJoeHikes I agree, environment and peer pressure definitely play a part. However, I wouldn't expect you to be privy to that type of behavior (as a youth) from adults, if it was present at all, as most people tend to guard their speech and behavior when their child has friends over.

[@hollyperrin7353]

Their first meeting was such a touching surprise… as was their last. In the beginning we are innocent, in the end, we are wise. All of the nonsense in between is just nonsense.

[@marcusmarkou]

That's a perfect summary

[@johnwickenden5643]

Succinctly put, spot on well done

[@gbnred175]

Not friends, not enemies Just strangers with some memories

[@isaiah6659]

Is that a song 🤔

[@gbnred175]

@@isaiah6659 I donno mate

[@ashleywright8686]

Think how many times this could have happened, in our lives.

[@RRodriguez1904]

Right? When we weren’t paying attention? 🍃

[@Wat3rCoCk]

this is so crazy to think about

[@ashleywright8686]

@@Wat3rCoCk it truly is, isn’t it?? Have a wonderful day!

[@gav-ce5cm]

From childhood it's amazing to think about it.

[@yoyashuyo3485]

I had a childhood friend we used to play a lot then, i got far away as my father got transferred to other place, after 15-16 years we were in high school, and i got a glimpse from past i know this guy, then i met him again, but life was changed he remember me but not like old friends just a random person, i felt a little awkward and really bad. Then we passed from high school, and since then i never met him again!

[@_jazzypants7321]

Why has it taken youtube over 2 years to recommend this to me? That, was exceptional. Bravo M. Markou.

[@marcusmarkou]

For a couple of years it just bounced on the bottom of a the sea bed, just 20 or so views per day then suddenly at the end of March it started to blow up.

[@chefcocoa9890]

Same here 👍

[@Rhea303]

Precious ❣

[@barbarakangas3255]

Just came through for me, too! I love it. Still, I guess it shows the power of the internet. I may be seeing this later than I would have if I had attended the local Film Festival, where I see it was a winner, but at least I get to see it. It really makes me wonder about the people I've crossed paths with.

[@evoL.i]

Coz now u ready & it's time. Decided by utube or universe? Is the question.

[@cobymeytin8542]

No idea why I clicked on this recommended video but I’m so glad I did

[@marcusmarkou]

Well, I'm very glad that you did! Marcus

[@cobymeytin8542]

@@marcusmarkou very well made and impactful film. Good job

[@beckv8526]

I'm not crying. You have me sobbing. This should be required watching. People aren't born hating. Hate is learned.

[@maryann7619]

Why do you fall back on hate?

[@dechannigan2980]

Bullshit

[@yoyashuyo3485]

Hi 😇

[@lollypopdrop3961]

BECK, i agree, this should be required in elementary schools.

[@Yessentuki4]

No, every baby is taught to share, tell the truth, etc. Humans fell away from God and only Jesus can make us whole again and give us a new nature!

[@duncanidahoffs]

Completely encapsulates the concept of how even the smallest of interactions can have the greatest of consequences - something I'm trying to teach my son. Beautiful, thank you!

[@sageikeda4434]

I like how the director added the mother’s subtle racist remark, “Don’t want you catching germs,” to indicate that Alistair’s toxic mentality at the beginning of the film had been learned, and as the ending showed, it can be unlearned.

[@nikolakostadinov9830]

That's genius!

[@nocolaarssmith8719]

to be fair he was playing in a dirty sandbox

[@nikolakostadinov9830]

@@nocolaarssmith8719 Well we only assume it was dirty cuz it's a sandbox, but we don't actually know it is, I mean it looked clean I believe. I'm not saying it is, I'm just saying it could be. Plus they are kids, plus they didn't put it in their moth, I dunno it was still a nice movie

[@Zodroo_Tint]

Not really working. In a world were all white people is racist and adults are smart because they are educated yes, but not all white people is racist and education doesn't make people smart, many modern parent doing the opposite what their childrens need, they don't let the children's immune system develop, they don't bestfeed their baby and so on. Yes, I think it is about racism but I don't think it's working. First calling someone in a name what is most representative to their kind is normal, germans were called Fritz americans were called Tommy in the second war, russians were called Ivan. Second, many mother is stupid enough to not let their children play in the sandbox for stupid or selfish reasons. This story could work better without implementing the white guy was a racist.

[@nikolakostadinov9830]

@@Zodroo_Tint I like the way you think, and I agree with you too. Well sayd

[@raymondkymsuttle]

I’m a harsh critic who’s had to watch hundreds of shorts over the years in the biz (& have made about 25 myself!) & I can honestly say this is one of the best shorts I’ve ever seen. Fantastic concept, structure & acting. I find some of the dialogue slightly clunky but there’s also some great writing. The money/gratitude scene was superbly acted.

[@MrMelonsz]

Agreed!

[@ThatCreeNative1]

Sometimes, the most simplest ideas are often the greatest. Too many try too much or too little. This filmmaker understands storytelling.

[@markkillset5205]

My only disappointment was this wasn't a full 2hr movie. Great Job to the writer and all involved.

[@JamesNYCGuy3]

I was homeless on & off in NYC for years. This digs deep in me. I was begging for money one day because I really wanted a hot breakfast sandwich and coffee. A guy told me to get the EFF away and get a job. It was loud and I was too embarrassed to stay so I walked away. Then someone stopped me. A few people were telling that man off. Someone bought me a coffee and ham, egg & cheese sandwich. I WAS AN ANIMAL with it! He gave me some cash for food. I was uplifted. Later that day, the guy who told me to get a job walked up and had a bag of food. He looked as if he was about to cry. I took it, smiled brightly and said Thank You.

[@mohitsatkari]

And that man was me 👍❤️

[@mohitsatkari]

@Chxotic 😀

[@mohitsatkari]

@Chxotic by watching this video

[@mohitsatkari]

@Chxotic u seems to be a curious soul

[@mohitsatkari]

@Chxotic it's by chance 😀, everything is interconnected , mind it

[@jamespsyfer]

Innocence of children,prejudice/ignorance.. forgiveness.. compassion... humility.. repentance.. redemption..very poetic!🙏

[@mlight6845]

A man's walk through life.

[@jamespsyfer]

@@mlight6845 ..as Sherlock Holmes once said.." you are not in yourself luminous, but you are nevertheless a conductor of light! " M.Light 😁

[@dellacalfee]

Yes, James

[@dellacalfee]

@@jamespsyfer I have learned we do emanate near infrared light just beyond the visible spectrum.

[@jamespsyfer]

@@dellacalfee touché 🤣🤣🤣

[@Manikese]

The order of the encounters, the flow, the history, incredible. Magnificent short movie.

[@marcusmarkou]

Thank you. I do feel I got lucky with the story. I found a way in and it kind of told itself and I am so happy it connects with people every day.

[@ericcajada2750]

​@@marcusmarkouyou did great, i really enjoyed it

[@ccxcreatives]

When he was asked, "Do I know you?" at the end scene, he knows he remembers him, he doesn't need a word, he just smile instead. That question was the same words he uttered when he found the guy familiar, during the job interview - that scenario suddenly flashed back. The feeling of gratefulness and guilt at the same time, knowing he rejected the same person whom he helped afterwards during his lowest moment. Now, is the one helping him in his fragile state. What an eye-opening story!

[@marielucier7982]

The innocence of childhood friends and the learned lessons in maturity of old age meet. Beautiful story.

[@tomw9599]

Well said.

[@IDFK531]

You don't remember the people you've hurt, but the people you've hurt remember you.

[@scolasticamuthoni1832]

That's right

[@kingx9995]

Treat others the way you want to be treated. Spread love not hate and always be there for those in need ❤

[@VideoRevealed]

What an incredible film. I'm in tears. There is love and hope with humanity, we just need to give it a chance. Amazing work Marcus.

[@marcusmarkou]

Thank you!

[@filipino437]

Agree

[@RebekahCurielAlessi]

Maybe it's blowing up (you know, popularizing) now because it's a gift we all really need right now? 🌞

[@D4Golf2]

No….Thank YOU!!!! Likewise in tears

[@uroojwaheed955]

@@marcusmarkou it's amazing , decent elegant touchy and interesting

[@dannyray9375]

This has 'Karma' written all over it! This is truly a remarkable and extraordinary award-winning short film. This short film is what every human being on the planet needs to see before they die.

[@adorothyinkansas4392]

...early on in life! That way they learn the pattern, make any needed adjustments and implement it early on.

[@alisdairstraughan6165]

As a bald, beareded man called Alisdair, I approve of this video.

[@prateekshapandey7494]

Wow

[@RedDeadDepressionist]

Are you also taught to be racist as a kid lol

[@JIBTER]

Do I know you?

[@PrithvirajDJaguar]

Hahahahaha

[@Miamiflow885]

You were right on not giving me that job

[@katielee4892]

"In a world where you can be anything, be kind." Clare Pooley

[@apricotcookie4850]

A lovely, lovely film. A reminder of what humans are capable of when prejudice and cruelty are not running the show. We are better than we allow ourselves to be.

[@abdulmumin6251]

Your right but alot of racism is taught at home

[@waa_baa_kee]

When I was in high school, somebody I became good friends with took me to their house. When we got there I realized his neighbors house was where my grandma used to live & that he had lived there all his life. Him and I actually played together as children and never knew it until we had been friends for a while.

[@origanev1986]

sweet

[@lundbeatz]

12 minute emotional rollercoaster. Well done!

[@marcusmarkou]

Thanks!

[@regmisandeep]

Meet 1 : Both innocent Meet 2: Alister is kinda mean Meet 3: Aziz is kinda mean Meet 4: Alister is in need and Aziz is really generous Meet 5: Aziz is in need and Alister is really generous .

[@HunMin004]

I believe we are born to love and taught to hate. What an example of that.

[@lyricberlin]

just goes to show that none of us would want to be judged on our worst day. We have all said and even done things that did not reflect our true caring nature.

[@chondominguez6995]

I learned this the hard way. After burning bridges. Then having to cross that bridge again. Yet it’s gone. Because I burnt it. Now at age 47 I have learned. There is no reason to end things on a negative note. Things can end on a positive note. Be better today than yesterday. Grow as an individual. Be humble. Be kind. Smile. Be happy. It’s a state of mind. Love y’all.

[@mal.o1403]

nvm editied

[@psmax59800]

Ty

[@htspencer9084]

Its funny, we remember the hurt we receive so viscerally but not the hurt we put onto others.

[@philrossner3250]

As a videographer and aspiring short documentary maker, I am so inspired by this film. I have watched it many times and revel in the way Marcus has conveyed the story.

[@marcusmarkou]

Thanks Phil. Good luck with all your filmmaking projects.

[@MrMelonsz]

@@marcusmarkouGreat job man. Not many people can make something truly amazing out of just actors and settings nowadays.

[@chrisfraser9258]

Its always wise to be nice to people on your way up because you will possibly see them on your way down

[@lawrencemaitland]

I was supposed to just eat my lunch and carry on working. Now I'm crying. That was beautiful man❤

[@fromthescreen123]

It should have been called “Do I know you?” Beautiful story and beautiful message 😊 I saw this many years ago, I’m so glad it randomly popped up in my feed again

[@marcusmarkou]

Thank you, again!

[@MrJosephdrummond]

I am not who I used to be. All the people I used to know, throughout the years, never knew the best version of me. It makes me sad to think that IF they ever think of me again, they will remember me for who I was, never knowing who I grew to be. It was volunteering that allowed me to forgive myself. Insightful writing. I am ...moved

[@marcusmarkou]

This is a profound statement. I love that idea of the becoming the "best version of ourselves" and feeling sadness about the people we cared about not knowing who we would become. And volunteering being the thing that allows your to forgive yourself is profoundly moving too.

[@gav-ce5cm]

The good thing is that you have changed. You haven't dwelled on your old personality. Most people change in good and bad ways so I don't think people would imagine you today as the same.

[@TheMvkol]

It actually is crazy how everyone is connected. I was telling a story to my girlfriend at the times parents and i had mentioned the dugout which was a place for adult softball games and they had said they used to play there, and then her mom began telling me a story about how a little kid got hit with a ball when he was still in a stroller. That kid was me lmao, she was telling me a story about me to me, it turns out that my ex and I used to play together on the playground lmao. I even went to high school with her same grade and everything and I never even knew who she was, but she knew me which I thought was the craziest thing

[@MonstersFlyinginTheSky]

"The axe forgets but the tree remembers." Some wise person

[@12yrsoldguitarist]

In my entire time on youtube, I’ve never posted a single comment other than the time I was 12, asking what a pickup selector was in a guitar cover video of November Rain by Guns N Roses. 13 years later I decided to post this comment because I was really moved by this short film. It’s been a rough year for me and I’m trying to figure life out, just like every other person in their 20s. But thank you for this inspiring film that may have very well inspired me to write and produce emotional human stories like this. Thank you Marcus.

[@marcusmarkou]

I'm honoured by your comment Juan. Marcus

[@fargnbastage]

I'm 35 and still trying to figure out. However, I'll say this, the older I get...the less I try figuring out wtf it is I'm supposed to be doing, or who I'm supposed to be, and focus more on the life and people in front of me. Good luck!

[@God.HomeSchooled]

@@fargnbastage I love you

[@God.HomeSchooled]

@@marcusmarkou You should be

[@MauriiciioBriito]

Hope you find your path.

[@ddawson100]

No idea why KZbin recommended this but it was the best recommendation in a long time. Sweet movie.

[@CSUnger]

"Everyone wants to think about changing the world but no one wants to think about changing themselves" Tolstoy

[@rugbynimbus]

Sometimes when I'm feeling low, I get reminded "Hey, remember that time you bought that man's groceries?" Years ago I was standing at a checkout, night before Thanksgiving, and the card of the man ahead of me got declined over and over. So I bought his groceries for him. He cried. He said it was the first Thanksgiving he got to have his children over since the divorce. I have no idea who he was or what became of it all, but I hope it made a difference for him. Something we have to be reminded about just might be something another person never forgets.

[@litterpicker1431]

It's impressive that this film manages to realistically portray its central characters over so many stages of their lives. Kudos to the various Sarahs of casting and make up.

[@classifiedinformation6353]

We are strangers, but together we have just witnessed a fine film worthy of sharing with everyone, including strangers.

[@marcusmarkou]

Thank you, that's a beautiful message.

[@leeosborne3987]

That look of discovery at the end when Samir recognizes Alistair and discovers his own actions of compassion may have made a difference in the world...

[@herbypumpkin1256]

My son (aged 38) told me to watch it on Saturday. By Sunday I had shown my wife (aged 70) and then sent it to my Granddaughter (aged 14) who is studying Films for GCSE. I told her that this Film not only had a great moral story but was superbly acted and directed. I told my local Church Minster on Sunday to watch this Film and it was better than any sermon I had heard from the Pulpit. He promised to watch. Thank you.

[@ochrechap]

Better than any sermon from the pulpit? Be careful hoe you choose your words, deary!

[@marylethamatthews3231]

Our mother always taught us this. Be kind you never know who will cross your path again. That was a gift. So is this film. Thank you.

[@nailaaslam879]

Exactly.....the way v treat others actually reflects how v r ourselves.....so shud always b nice to others...

[@mandalorian1282]

@@nailaaslam879 Sister it’s ‘we’ not ‘v’

[@chazfreakshow]

Fine, go ahead and make me cry why don't you.

[@e.l.france5136]

For sure and now you make me smile. Thank you.

[@cuccicucci4480]

Best short I've seen all year. Why didn't I see this before now. These 2 actors were a perfect fit. Amazing tear jerker.👍

[@marcusmarkou]

Thank you!

[@nayshahampton8275]

Watch two distant strangers on Netflix!

[@sarahreuter3132]

Dear Mister Markou, I just watched your movie twice. I'm moved by those two strangers and the way they interacted with each other throughout their lives. I love how you created the story and the different meeting. I want to thank you for this beautiful piece of love, generosity, kindness, truth,... Of course, there is a less joyful meeting in which racism is shown but it wouldn't be that profound without it. I wish you a nice day ! I am much inspired !

[@marcusmarkou]

Thanks Sara... that's a beautiful comment to read. Marcus

[@Mackee1196]

Omg, im crying so much, the smile on he's face at the end, "Do i know you?". And they've known eachother their whole life basically!

[@GuroDon]

Now that I am in my mid-60s [and still feels like I'm in my 20's] I see how lifes Journey intertwines so intricately and beautifully. Thank you for your beautiful film.

[@tomlonebegween3104]

Poetry and short movies can achieve so much more than a book or a feature length movie.

[@Rockwells420]

I remember a man in my past that one said to me and he probably said this to me when I was just on the verge of waking up, but he said to me try to see yourself in every man and that single phrase has shaped many of the experiences I’ve had in life in a very positive way I remember when I became a human

[@kellygreen195]

Probably the best short film I've ever seen. So well done. Love it. A powerful message on many levels.

[@marcusmarkou]

Thanks Kelly!

[@constancewalsh3646]

Me too.

[@Hotlooksamerica]

Congrats on getting picked up by KZbin algorithm recommendation. Truly a gem of a film.

[@1stSite]

So to my understanding this story depicts that, when we are young children we do not undersunderstand what is race, skin color, religion or even germs as the mother mother said to Alistair when taking him home.....for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th meetings they both had egos filled to the core! At least in the 4th meet Sam helped Allister. And when we get older, we don't care about race, religion, or even skin color, as egos seems dead at that point in life. This story made me overwhelmed. Why have we forgotten what love is and what it means to be patient. Being loving, caring and being patient of all is that gets you going in life. Thank you so much for this video. I know this short video, which tells the truth should reach all over the world.

[@ivonnefournery7710]

❤

[@Happynesofachild]

Sometimes people realize too late that life is turning around all the time and you never know when a person you met before and you never paid attention to them can help you in most difficult times of your life… Be kind you only live once ❤

[@63mesiken]

It’s a small world we live in, treat other’s as you want to be treated.

[@mouradici]

The Prophet mohamed piece be upon him said, "None of you will have faith till he wishes for his (Muslim) brother what he likes for himself."

[@Calmwaters50]

A little humility, understanding and compassion can go a long way in life....beautifully done!

[@godisgracious3783]

I bet you scrolled back like me to see if you missed the first time they met😂 this was a beautiful short film 🤩🥰

[@GodDogPassport]

100% did.

[@tex959]

Yup, I did

[@618B]

BE KIND TO OTHERS. YOU'LL NEVER KNOW WHEN YOUR PATHS WILL CROSS AGAIN.

[@fanchenworld]

When Samir smiles at the end I couldnt hold up tears were shedding .

[@Andrea-xs4ny]

This deserves all the awards it's been given. What a beautiful story!

[@lisakessler2055]

What a beautiful story. It touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes.

[@evermoredragon892]

The first meeting with the boys making sand castles put a smile on my face, then in an instant with one sentence from the mother I had a tear roll down my face. This is a must watch short, thanks to Marcus Markou and all involved.

[@marcusmarkou]

Thank you

[@YukonDemon]

Not often a 12 minute video on KZbin brings me to tears. Edit: All the people making comments about racist propaganda, I'm a white dude who is sick of a lot of cancel culture left wing bullshit as well, but I can appreciate this as a well crafted and beautiful story about the ability for people to change and how random acts of kindness can change people's lives. If you're reading some kind of racial thing into it I think you're completely missing the point.

[@MrWolfheart111]

most people who watch this are many races.... what are you talking about? Im Italian/Ukrainian/Welsh/Irish am I white?

[@YukonDemon]

@@MrWolfheart111 I'm just reacting to some of the negative comments.

[@EM.Bricklaying]

@@MrWolfheart111 you’ve just named 5 different nationalities how is anybody supposed to know your race

[@MrWolfheart111]

@@EM.Bricklaying "you’ve just named 5 different nationalities how is anybody supposed to know your race"... :(

[@SydMountaineer]

Right, it’s about living in an interdependent universe & inclusiveness, people working together for the good of the whole- like our cells in our body work together for the good of the body, is equal to ALL living things, plants, soil, animals (including humans), & insects working together for the health of the world.

[@sallydoc4439]

Amazing ... this should be showed in every school classroom across the land

[@marcusmarkou]

Hi Sally, there are a few schools that do show this to their classes. I know this because a few teachers have emailed me asking if they could show it and we stayed in touch. If any school does screen it to their students then I'm always happy to do a Zoom Q&A with the children about filmmaking and how this was made.

[@Lipanj92]

@@marcusmarkou That's amazing !

[@Pleiades888]

The last 2 minutes of listening to the violin/piano weeping moved my heart to tears for 2 minutes. Very rarely are people moved to tears these days. We are always on the run, busy about our business. The common man does not go to the opera, ballet or get to hear how an orchestra can move the heart to grandiose heights. Please make more movies like this to raise our consciousness and be more compassionate. Thank you 🧡

[@janinadabrowska8152]

Dear Laura, yes, you're absolutely right, people don't get emotional about beautiful pieces of art any more (especially in times of pandemic) and the music is the most beautiful touch to that moving story. If you are looking for some deep spiritual experience with music, I strongly recommend Russian romances, most of all 'Kolokolcik', preferrebly performed by a georgian male choir. I can guarantee you streams of tears down your cheeks, an unforgettable thing.

[@juniperabbott2614]

@@janinadabrowska8152 sounds interesting..love russian writers, never read much romance.. But, yes, ART.

[@janinadabrowska8152]

Oh, Russian literature is excellent, though 'heavy', but since music was mentioned here, by 'romances' I meant old Russian songs (some are described as folk, as many originated in folk culture, but not in the traditional understanding of folk music, light and cheerful). I suppose due to extremely difficult fate of Russian nation, these songs mostly depict the hardships, in both the lyrics as well as most beautiful tunes. Also, they are, in my opinion, one of the best singers in the world. These songs are called 'romances' and I strongly recommend you discover them for yourself. Enjoy, all the best.

[@nuriaherreramarcos5999]

Really good story. I have used it with my students in Spain to debate about intolerance, ignorance, and the power of empathy. Thank you very much!

[@marcusmarkou]

Thank you Nuria, that is great to hear. Regards to all your students!

[@galerights8983]

would be interested to join your class!

[@mrpartyfreak101]

SOOOO many people missing the point. Its a cycle. Its about how people develop and how they can choose to break the cycle. It's so subtle in the first meeting, when they were kids. Both of them are incecnt, knowing nothing to hate of anyone, just having fun together. Then the mother takes him way you can hear her say "don't want you to catch the germs," you can clearly see that his hate is a learned behavior and that underneath he has a good soul but it was taited by others. I love the ending, it show the true nature of the white guy, to help and be kind to others, the younger version of himself was one of learned hate. You can choose to unlearn your programming that the message or at least that is the message I got.

[@ricknaughty1016]

Your thinking too much into it. The meaning of the story is be kind when u meet someone cause u don't know under what circumstances or when you may meet them again Brainwashing and rascism/ islamophbia isn't just from parenting it's also from media/ news outlets and fed to small minded people that need a TV box to tell them how to think, act and what to buy

[@mrpartyfreak101]

@@ricknaughty1016 the creator liked my comment so I'd say I'm thinking just enough. Thanks for your input tho.

[@TheLord.IsMyShepherd]

WOW! so much packed into 12 mins. How important it is to lead with love, how impactful our every action is and its consequences ,and how there are no coincidences. we should love our neighbors as we love ourselves for real!

[@gamecop2191]

I used to work at an apartment complex and there was a resident that was a nightmare, she never paid rent and she always was bitter and nasty and would call me a racist and threaten to sue me and one time even threatened the office with a “shotgun “ she supposedly had..... she was evicted for that. A few years later I walked into a shoe store and to my surprise this lady was the one helping me. I was instantly caught off gaurd but I could tell she didn’t recognize me. I felt bitter and had the thought “u used to make my job a nightmare now I should do the same”. I didn’t , she was good at her job and friendly. It was a fine interaction. 2 years later I go for an interview at my current job and she’s my supervisor. She hired me on the spot and I recently brought up to her the past. She didn’t remember me at all at the apartment office, she went on to explain her drug and alcohol addiction and how she was at the lowest point of her life back then. She cried and was so embarrassed . The thing is- I also had a past of addiction and alcohol abuse. We get along great now and she recently promoted me . She is doing great as well sober with a child. Life is weird

[@gamecop2191]

@@mewho6199 no. I’m glad that’s what you took from the story tho.

[@OhLatte]

@@gamecop2191 damn, I’m proud of you! If that were me I would’ve been pissed

[@samybouzida7956]

beautiful and touching story my friend. Spot on. This goes straight to the heart of this video. Thank you for sharing.

[@EmmaGeeFlowers]

You just never know what's around the corner. The least you can do is teach your children to be kind to whoever they meet. Brilliantly observed.

[@adorothyinkansas4392]

Kind but with Boundaries! Having boundaries is healthy and safe.😉

[@jameshuntsman6046]

Great film. Relationships no matter how small can build us up or tear us down. Thanks for making this film, we all need reminders of how to treat each other better and to remember what comes around goes around.

[@denisenichols6505]

No wonder this short film won Awards. It says everything in a few mins that it takes decades to learn on your own without healthy guidance when young. I welled up in tears.Like being throat punched. Beautiful,just beautiful ,thank you.

[@marcusmarkou]

Thank you Denise...

[@workprofile8387]

I know that by the time you're viewing this comment it's gonna be months after you made it, this film told me to not lose hope in humanity, as of 2015, I'm diagnosed with severe depression, there have been numerous times throughout my life time where I almost took my own life, thank you for giving me hope that I will try my best and not give up. Keep up the good work Marcus.

[@marcusmarkou]

I read the comments every day but it might be a few weeks before I reply to some very heartfelt comments. I'm sorry to hear about your depression. The only advice I can give here is to detach from the mind. The mind is where hell resides. To that effect, I recommend two books and you can find them as audio books. Ekhart Tolle's Powet of now and Michael Singers the Unethered Soul.

[@MrLondonGo]

@@marcusmarkou Depression aside how are you guys bending time with these comments? 5 days ago?!

[@richyearle007]

Hello Ryan i truly hope you can get your life back on track and can leave the black cloud that's engulfing you in the distant past. No matter how bad your problems are, have faith that everything will eventually work out. All the best mate.

[@durdanaayub4487]

Ryan... I have been through a lot and the life that is ahead of me doesn't seem easy either. There was a time I thought I wouldn't be married ever, then came a time I almost gave up on becoming a mom. Now I have a beautiful daughter. I have battled depression for eight years. Still, I can feel it sometimes. But I fight, I am never going to give up. I hope and pray that you find love, happiness, and peace.

[@55mikemoore]

Very subtle, and powerful line by the mother during the 1st meeting scene in the sandbox. In that passing moment it painted a vivid picture of how hatred/racism is taught and passed down from generation to generation. She warned her son about "germs" referring to the young boy playing with someone "different" from him. That sentiment was likely forced onto that boy his entire childhood which, in turn, formed his perception, and thus caused his downtroddenness. Well done.

[@revelationmd]

Lol - oh yeah. Real subtle…

[@tkosteve]

I'm not so sure she meant the boy had germs. I was always warned as a child about germs in a playground sandbox because there were so many kids playing in it. Had nothing to do with race.

[@55mikemoore]

@@tkosteve Never considered that. Could be. I'm from The States and grew up around quite a few covert racists and bigots and that's how they acted. I'm also older so my parents never really cared about germs. Thanks for the insight.

[@tkosteve]

@@55mikemoore I'm 62 and grew up in the Bronx. Sorry you had to deal with that stuff.

[@revelationmd]

@@tkosteve I don’t know, it’s just so fashionable to push a message if “ism” into everything now. I’d like to think you are right, but the fact that the filmmakers decided to make the two strangers of different races and in the first encounter revealed the white guy (obviously 🥱) immediately deploys racist stereotypical names when referring to the other, suggests they wanted to push a “whitey bad racist” message.

[@jefferyshaw1931]

When you started with the second time, I thought I missed something. I loved how you put this together in a non-linear format for impact. This was such a wonderful and meaningful film for me. A little masterpiece. Thank you.

[@marcusmarkou]

Thanks Jeffrey - that's very kind of you. Marcus

[@lowerearthorbitz3693]

The absolute best eleven minutes I have spent in a long time. Thank you!! Our time here is so short - make every day better than the one before.

[@Simaetha]

This is an amazing video!! At the end, when Mr. Aziz smiled I smiled right along with him! I couldn't help but feel his joy of knowing who Alistaire was and meeting him there when he needed him most, a friend. Beautiful, emotional, wonderful, amazing! Thank you!!

[@tinkerstrade3553]

We remain who we are, yet we are always becoming someone else. At 70, I would be a stranger to my 20 year old self. Changes.

[@zoecunningham3019]

Eloquently worded. Journeys may alter the landscape views, the vehicle aged heavier from momentous gathered.

[@farcamp]

At 60, I feel the same. Thank you...

[@Retsni]

this is one of the only films ive watched that has genuinely brought tears to my eye. this is a masterpiece. thank you.

[@marcusmarkou]

I wish you were one of the judges who selected Shorts for the Oscars... not that it matters! Because YOU found this. Thank you, whoever you are.