What would you do if you woke up one morning with a mermaid’s tail attached to you on the very day of an important job interview? That’s the unusual premise behind A Tail, a female led short film starring award-winning creator and comedy star Hayley Morris.
Directed by Rosie Gaunt-Mathieson, this 12-minute comedy drama follows Gemma Pearson as she attempts to get on with everyday life despite her rather inconvenient new addition. With the help of her sister, Gemma sets out to face the world and prove herself, refusing to let her circumstances hold her back.
There’s plenty of humour in watching Gemma navigate daily life with a giant mermaid’s tail, but beneath the comedy lies a more meaningful message. Her struggle to make her way in a man’s world reflects the extra hurdles women can face when trying to be taken seriously and prove their worth.
The film cleverly uses its fantastical premise to explore workplace expectations and the pressure on women to fit into a world that hasn’t necessarily been designed with them in mind. Gemma’s tail may be unusual, but the frustration of having to work harder to prove yourself is something many viewers will recognise.
At just 12 minutes, A Tail delivers a quirky mix of comedy, heart and empowerment, using an imaginative story to shine a light on a very real issue. It’s a reminder that women shouldn’t have to change who they are to earn a place at the table.
A Tail is currently making its way around the film-festival circuit, so keep an eye out for future screenings and announcements about where you can watch it.
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