Grieving the death of her father, a young actress asks her ex-girlfriend to help with a self-tape audition. “Tradition,” directed by Akari, is a heavy drama that captures a tricky reunion and a flailing attempt to return to what once was. Max is in a state of emotional turmoil when Ryan swings by to grab some remaining belongings from the apartment they used to share. Max misses Ryan’s company and asks if she would help with a self-tape later. Hesitantly, Ryan agrees. The two re-convene later that night where line rehearsals, hurt feelings, and liquor combine to tumultuous effect. A portrait of raw heartache that nails the gestures and subtext of a young couple in modes of distress and resentment. -JM. Writer/Director: Akari. Cast: Kayla Fontana, Nora Lullo. Producer: Ethan Manuel Homen. Director of Photography: Oliver Stamatatos. Editor: Akari. Assistant Camera+Gaffer: Avery Johnson. Sound Recordist: Alec Dahmer. Post Sound: Aiden Schwartz. Original Song “Tradition”: Neve Hamalian.