Future Darkly: Model Citizen

'Since mankind's dawn, a handful of oppressors have accepted the responsibility over our lives that we should have accepted for ourselves. By doing so, they took our power. By doing nothing, we gave it away.' -Alan Moore, V For Vendetta Citizen Val (Aria Lee) sits obediently in front of a television, her eyes focused solely on the screen. Before her, Mother relays her daily message of love, ensuring that all can hear her soothing voice. As a model citizen, it's up to Citizen Val to do her part for the good of society, which includes ONLY having romantic and sexual relations with designated partners of approved genetic compatibility. When there is a knock on the door, she is quick to answer. Auditor Bale (Tyler Nixon) stands before her, his presence a powerful one that she respects without question. In a calm, authoritative voice, he announces that he's there to do a routine audit of the household to ensure that everything is in working order. Although Citizen Val finds this a bit suspicious, since she was audited only a couple weeks ago, she allows him inside. Auditor Bale surveys the house, making sure that everything is exactly as it should be, especially when it comes to receiving Mother's messages. He then asks Citizen Val routine questions to ensure that she's been doing her part as a model citizen. With each question asked, Citizen Val grows more nervous, although Auditor Bale doesn't seem to catch on. Finally, it's time for the physical examination to ensure that Citizen Val's genetic profile is up to date. 'Do you understand and accept that only Auditors have the authority to disable the broadcast, and that as a model citizen you must never disable it of your own volition?' Auditor Bale relays, clearly having said the line hundreds of times before. 'Yes,' Citizen Val utters. As Auditor Bale disables the surveillance all around her, Citizen Val's heart pounds wildly in her chest for what's to come. Nominated - Best Art Direction, AVN 2020 Nominated - Best Special Effects, AVN 2020