The Light That Remains (2026

-Written by Zach Troxel.

In The Light That Remains, we follow a smart group of scientists and astronauts who are brought together through tragedy, hope, and sacrifice as they search for a world altering solution in the face of impossible circumstances. Science fiction blended with grounded storytelling is at its core as the short film explores grief, perseverance, and the difficult reality of acceptance.

The Light That Remains is an ambitious short film that succeeds because it understands that science fiction is at its best when the scale serves the characters rather than replacing them. From the opening moments, the film sets a compelling emotional foundation before expanding into its larger sci-fi concepts. While the narrative occasionally leans into some consistent cliches from the genre, it never loses sight of the human story at its core. Director Jarom Beardall demonstrates a clear understanding of visual storytelling and color grading to allow the tones to carry just as much weight as the dialogue throughout. 

First and foremost, an excellent aspect of the project is the way it is delivered visually. The visuals are consistently solid with color grading that adds some kind of cinematic quality to the production. Every location looks thought out and chosen purposefully, and the visuals make the film feel superior compared to many other independent short films of the same scale. Although CGI may look somewhat unrealistic sometimes, the intentions behind it should be acknowledged. Far from becoming a distraction factor, the visuals make the story even more wide-ranging and show how much the production team wants to do more.

Another strong element of the film is the sound design. Everything stays well mixed throughout the film and each emotional beat is felt strongly enough by the audience. One of the most brilliant ideas presented in the sound design can be heard in the way the spacecraft sounds are complemented by the sounds of the hospital room. This is a subtle but highly effective moment which connects two locations and underlines the emotional similarities between them. Flashbacks are used seamlessly and enforce the story at the right pace.

The performances are decent across the board and they help keep the larger concepts simple. Beardall (Julian) serves as the anchor while keeping us invested in the story and his character. Kadence Delbiaggio (Jaylee) brings several heartfelt moments that strengthen the emotional parts of the plot. The supporting cast of Betsy Kennedy Ryzewics (“Interview Lady”), Logan Richard (Auron Astronautics Director of Communications), and Casper Thoma (Auron Astronautics Director of Operations) all provide performances that keep the film intact. Although some of the characters would have greatly benefited from more development, the ensemble consistently succeeds in accomplishing the plot. 

The screenplay contains quite a few emotionally strong scenes which work out well due to the fact that the film gives sufficient time to get to know the characters. Sadly, some of them happen too quickly. There are many scenes in The Light That Remains which really struggle with timing and could have used another twenty to thirty seconds at least. The film knows when it hits an emotional note but sometimes moves on way too quickly without letting the us soak it in.

Likewise, the dialogue serves its purpose, but doesn’t entirely secure itself. Most of the exposition works just fine. However, stronger and more personalized dialogue would have done wonders to the relationships in the film.

The pacing also becomes uneven during several of the larger space sequences. While the visual ambition is good, portions of the launch material, and other portions, begin to overstay their welcome. Ironically, the emotional parts are the scenes that deserve the additional time, while a handful of the action could have been cut down without compromising the plot. If some of these scenes had these slight adjustments The Light That Remains would be elevated to a new level.  

Ultimately, The Light That Remains succeeds because of its heart. Beneath the framework of the visual ambition and science fiction lies a genuine and emotional story that cares about each of its characters. The film certainly isn’t flawless, but it is a polished product with strong technical craftsmanship, and a very sincere and emotional core that consistently outweighs any shortcomings. Beardall shows considerable promise both behind and in front of the camera, and the supporting cast brings extra light to the project. Tighter pacing and more distinct dialogue could have elevated this film to astronomical levels of quality. Even so, The Light That Remains stands as an innovative and impressive independent short film that shows real potential and leaves an everlasting emotional impression. 

Written & Directed by Jarom Beardall.

Starring Jarom Beardall, Kadence Delbiaggio, Betsy Kennedy Ryzewics, Logan Richard, & Casper Thoma.

7.5/10 = WORTH RENTING OR BUYING