THE BALCONY (From CalArts (California Institute of Arts) Santa Clarita California Released on YouTube USA 2022)

 Ben Meyers’ Rating: 3.6|5.0 Starsììì 

The Balcony—short film—attempts to graphically define loneliness and the need to connect with others. The short film shows a vignette of modern life and an audience may be left with a boring, sadness that is difficult to shake after watching. The simple animation begins with a top-down view, which is a nice variation from many short films. It’s simply animated but its story seems too much like real life to fall in love with it as entertainment. It is what it is 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images 

Storyline 

Define loneliness attempt marks this short movie. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Anya Martin for directing effort. CalArts student film distributing on YouTube. 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Maybe. It is what it is; a good effort. One interpretation may not be what the writers wanted the audience to take away. 

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

 

STEEP (University of Washington Interdisciplinary Visual Arts and Animation Program Seattle Washington USA 2022)

 Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.1|5.0 Starsìììì 

Steep—excellent short film with tremendous heart—perfectly catches that international spirit so that it appeals to the international audience. The animation is simply wonderful. The short film encourages compassion, kindness, and care for others. This is a very good multiple watch for children, a good bedtime story, and a great permanent addition to the family home video library. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images 

Storyline 

A goose needs help and an inn keeper allows it to rest at her tea house. 

Additional Thanks                                                                                                                              

Thank you to Teahouse Productions for making the film possible. Thank you to YouTube for releasing it to the public. 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. This short film is a very good reminder of the most important things in life.

 Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers