Canners (2020)

"Canners" is a dark comedy/fantasy short film about greed, jealousy and aluminum cans. Joe Brazil, a homeless veteran, lives a lonely existence as a "canner," a person who collects recyclables for a living. Joe lives on the streets of Long Beach in the shadow of his nemesis Cowboy, the self-proclaimed "King of the Canners," who harasses and taunts him on the streets. In a series of misadventures, Joe discovers a magical Golden trash can that provides him a never-ending supply of aluminum cans which tips the balance of power. Cowboy ambushes Joe in the street and confronts him about his newfound success. Joe laughs in his face. Cowboy spies on Joe leaving the site of the Golden trash can and discovers its' secret. Joe rents a Motel room. He drinks, smokes and enjoys himself. The next morning, Joe dresses in new clothes, packs a bottle of whiskey and bolt cutters. He rides up to the Golden trash can and discovers Cowboy hammering its' lock and chain. Joe snaps, murders Cowboy with his routing stick and escapes with the Golden trash can. Joe rides into a tunnel and collapses to the ground in shame. He washes the blood off his hands with his whiskey. Joe discovers the Golden trash can is no longer in his shopping cart-it mysteriously sits down in the dark tunnel. A train screams by as Joe gets to his feet and walks up to the trash can. Joe lifts the lid, peers into the can with an expressionless face and closes his eyes. Is the trash full or empty? Is Joe rewarded or punished? You decide.