Length: 03:11
Logline: A sinister tale about a cat who wants to become human.
There's something a bit unworldly about cats at the best of times and this one is no exception. The story takes place in a non-specific olden days setting. This both enhances the creepiness, the folklore feeling and nicely suits the fact there are two guys using a well to get water from (as you do in the middle of the night). These elements could have been easily lost if the story had been placed in a modern world.
What works well is the combination of live action and 3D model animation which also complements the fairytale tone. Soft focus and a deceivingly warm colour scheme is used to separate the animation sequence from the cold blue live action. The stop motion work is almost a throwback to children's animation from the 70's and 80's. There's also a bit of a 'Braindead' rat-monkey influence in there too for you horror fans. Stylistically, this is dark and unsettling but also somehow familiar. The fabulous set design within the limited space creates an intimate surrounding which could nearly be described as cosy. The sound effects have been done with gusto and really heighten the disturbing visuals adding further layers. Dialogue also bookends the film and sort of brings the story full circle in a clever and imaginative way.
What's maybe missing is the old rule of three trick. We only get to see one example of the cat reaping a body part before the end reveal. There's no mention on what triggered all of this off or how the cat initially got its human hands. Although interesting, these things probably would have slowed pace and drawn out the voice over narrative. The decision to only keep in the essential details means that no time is wasted and at the same time, there is no loss os emotional or engaging content. (Am drivelling on again)
Best Bit: Twisty-type reveal at the end.
Worst Bit: Doubt having someones tongue would give you their voice somehow.
Final thought: Wonder if there's a human wanting to be a cat version?
Read a condensed review of this film on Twitter here.
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