The Crush

This 16-minute film follows Ardal, an eight-year-old with a crush on his teacher, Ms. Purdy. When he learns that she is engaged to someone he believes is unworthy, Ardal takes inspiration from western movies and decides to challenge his rival to a duel. The film captures the innocence of childhood romance while addressing the complexities of unrequited love.

As a short film, The Crush offers a unique perspective on schoolboy crushes and the lengths a child might go to for love. Its Irish setting and the combination of drama and comedy make it a notable piece in the contemporary short film landscape. The film also touches on themes of ambition and rivalry, making it a thought-provoking watch.