Mandy is excited to see her old friend, Lisa, but when she arrives in L.A., something is different. They spend the day together but something keeps coming between them. Lisa has grown obsessed with her dog, Rodney, and it’s the only thing she can talk about. What was supposed to be a fun trip of sightseeing and shopping begins to derail as Mandy becomes increasingly irritated with the one-dimensional conversation.

Director Doron Max Hagay is a NoBudge favorite. His 2013 feature Perfect Thoughts is a mini-classic of VHS awkwardness, and last year, he tackled the Monica Lewinsky saga to absurd effect in the 7 part mini-series, Monica. Both employ Hagay’s preference for stilted delivery and over explained dialogue, a hilarious effect once you’re on the wavelength.

In a short film landscape dominated by calling cards, slick shorts designed to announce you’re ready to disappear in Hollywood, Hagay takes an opposite approach. His absurd ruminations are destined to be misunderstood and under-appreciated and exist solely on the margins. But for my money, he’s one of good ones.

Written by Blair Beeken, Katy Fullan, and Doron Max Hagay. Directed, edited by Doron Max Hagay. Starring Blair Beeken and Katy Fullan.