Later Gator (2023)

"Later Gator" is a short drama-comedy narrative film which follows Baird, a sardonic, reticent Kmart employee, and Noah, a gregarious, virtuous wunderkind. Best friends since childhood, their relationship is challenged during a fateful day at the ocean when Baird almost drowns. Noah heroically saves his life, but instead of being thankful, Baird develops a dangerous resentment toward his friend when he retells the story to his attractive, new girlfriend, Isla, culminating in his drunken attack on Noah. In an attempt to make peace and remind Baird of his self-worth, Noah confronts his buddy only to learn that his efforts are in vain when Baird silently determines that in order for him to truly know who he is, their relationship must end.