On his way to school on a snowy day, Billy is rehearsing his speech on rampage shootings.

Last Words is an inspiring social commentary. Narrated by a young boy, John Hammon, whose soft voice goes from cheerful to wise, to dismayed, to angry, to instructive, to silent. The gentle role out of its message is beautifully designed to soothe the viewer rather than enrage them.

Billy, who is shot in a rampage school shooting after he co-wrote and rehearsed this speech, is the impetus for this short film on the subjects of responsible gun ownership, the second amendment, and the silence about private ownership of military-grade weapons. And, “Help me” were his last words.

Far from a gloom and doom film, the director Alan Chriest uses the guise of innocence as he makes a call to action from the mouth of a babe. The cinematography is gorgeous, although stark, as the northern walk we take with Billy reflects the chill of winter. The music and sound effects wrap the cheer of youth, and the dread of indifference around the story, tugging at our hearts to care, be reasonable, and to get involved. The images at the end remind us of the lost lives from school shootings and are heart-stopping. My heart hurt as I read the numbers, once again reminding me of these senseless deaths.

The message of this film is to recognize what is happening with the culture of violence and do something about it.

I give Last Words 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 11 to 18, plus adults. By Nancy K., KIDS FIRST!