Starring: Brian Cox and Jam Gray
Director: Simon Biggs
Rating: Seven of Ten Stars
A bored and lonely gentleman (voiced by Cox) living in a perfectly ordered world where humanity has subjugated themselves to clockwork automatons finds excitement when he crosses paths with a rebellious woman (voiced by Gray).
For a short film set in a steampunk utopia-turned-dytopia, "Widdershins" is amazingly sweet and touching. Every character in it is appealing in its own way (even the robotic butler that occupies a space in the story that swings from comedic sidekick to borderline villain to mildly pitiable pet) and each is provided touches that economically communicate their strengths and weaknesses and desires. In short, even the robot character gets some humanizing touches over the 10-minute span of this film, and it makes it an absolute joy to watch.
The animation is simple--perhaps a little too simple at times--but it's all energetic and well-matched to the fast-moving story. The music is very effective as well.
A bored and lonely gentleman (voiced by Cox) living in a perfectly ordered world where humanity has subjugated themselves to clockwork automatons finds excitement when he crosses paths with a rebellious woman (voiced by Gray).
For a short film set in a steampunk utopia-turned-dytopia, "Widdershins" is amazingly sweet and touching. Every character in it is appealing in its own way (even the robotic butler that occupies a space in the story that swings from comedic sidekick to borderline villain to mildly pitiable pet) and each is provided touches that economically communicate their strengths and weaknesses and desires. In short, even the robot character gets some humanizing touches over the 10-minute span of this film, and it makes it an absolute joy to watch.
The animation is simple--perhaps a little too simple at times--but it's all energetic and well-matched to the fast-moving story. The music is very effective as well.
If you like steampunk and/or quirky romance tales, I think you'll find the minutes spent in the world of Mr. Widdershins and the Mystery Woman will be enjoyable ones. Click below to start watching!
This film was called to our attention by a reader of the blog. If YOU know of a film you think we need to watch and call attention to--so others can enjoy it--send us a link at stevemillermail@gmail.com!
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