The Usual

Inspired by a summer spent working at a 24/7 cafe, Nicole Stafford's The Usual presents us with a family being torn apart by a dysfunctional mechanic. In an attempt to get away from the drama brewing at home, the protagonist spends his time away from home at a cafe in a bubble all his own. When his little brother ultimately gets desperate for some attention amidst all the abuse and neglect, he ultimately makes a decision that draws everyone together again.

From a visual standpoint the choice of using all the comic book panels with animations also helps sell the fact that it was a chaotic, dysfunctional time. The series of little frames are as uncomfortable to watch as much as the content held in them, but they really do sell the emotional aspects of this short well.