SMP Reviews
If you have been following the news at all, you know there has been a recent uprising by the women of Iran. Activists everywhere are standing up to the status quo that has oppressed them for decades. Mary Apick, a long-time activist, filmmaker, and actress has created a hand drawn animated film to reflect life in Iran since the 1979 revolution. “The Cat” tells the story of a little girl who sells flowers on the street. One day a darkness rolls in, destroying everything in its path, from artwork to individual will. The little girl tries to run from the darkness to avoid being consumed. At times she wants to give up but she keeps pressing on, hoping that she can once again find the light to push back the darkness.
“The Cat” is a powerful short film. No frame is wasted during the twelve-minute run time. Each scene is an allegory for what women and society as a whole have had to live with in Iran for decades. The various ways the darkness is portrayed is downright scary. There is a particular scene involving a factory that has stuck with me since I first saw it. So much is said without dialog, demonstrating the power of visual media. The hand drawn aesthetic of the animation gives the story an extra personal touch and an organic connection that is not as strong when CGI animation is used. I was very moved by this short and watched it a couple of times. I got more out of it with each viewing. The message in the film of hope is needed in the tough times that the women of Iran are facing, as well as for those facing similar challenges around the world. I highly recommend this moving, poignant, animated short film that says so much in so little time. Watch ‘The Cat’: https://vimeo.com/653885052
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AuthorI have been reviewing films since high school. I love discussing films with those who share my passion for them. I also do video reviews on YouTube and on my podcast. Archives
October 2024
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