A Boy, a Dog, and the Spirit of Survival
MOVIE REVIEW
Tomorrow
-
Genre: Animation, Short
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 17m
Director(s): Aryasb Feiz
Writer(s): Aryasb Feiz
Where To Watch: for more information, visit www.badstache.com
RAVING REVIEW: TOMORROW stands out as an evocative story set in the vibrant yet daunting landscape of 1970s Shiraz, Iran. In it, a young boy's struggle for survival mixes with the warmth of his newfound companionship with a stray dog. This animated short eschews traditional dialogue, opting to tell its heartfelt story through the universal language of visuals and music, making it accessible and emotionally engaging for a global audience.
Aryasb Feiz, the visionary behind TOMORROW, orchestrates a visual symphony of emotions. He employs sophisticated animation techniques supervised by Kaveh Ruintan, whose Hollywood credentials infuse the film with finesse and raw storytelling. The careful manipulation of light and shadows highlights the beauty of the film's setting. It mirrors the young protagonist's internal and external conflicts, deepening the audience's engagement with his plight.
TOMORROW's narrative revolves around the young protagonist's efforts to procure medicine for his ailing father, a mission fraught with moral struggles and physical dangers. His interactions, particularly the dynamic with a stern shopkeeper, offer a gritty look at the burdens of survival. Feiz directs these sequences with a precise vision, presenting ethical dilemmas without bias and inviting viewers to reflect on the tough choices necessitated by desperate circumstances.
At the heart of TOMORROW is the tender relationship between the boy and the stray dog. Their bond injects optimism into the narrative and showcases the profound impact of kindness and companionship. This relationship is a testament to the film's more profound message of hope and human resilience, portrayed through the lens of their shared experiences.
While TOMORROW captivates with its storytelling, the film's open-ended conclusion may leave some viewers yearning for deeper exploration and answers. This narrative choice underscores the ongoing reality of the characters' struggles, posing the poignant question of what the future holds without providing clear resolutions, thus maintaining a reflective and somewhat unresolved tone.
Despite its brief duration, TOMORROW offers an immersive viewing experience. Each scene is crafted, from the depiction of Shiraz's weathered streets to the nuanced expressions of its characters, creating a compelling visual narrative that resonates emotionally with the viewer. The film's well-calibrated pacing ensures that each moment is visually and emotionally significant, enhancing the story's overall impact.
Building on the success of his earlier work, MR. INDIFFERENT, Feiz continues to demonstrate his exceptional ability to craft narratives that resonate on both personal and universal levels. His collaboration with BadStache Animation Studio highlights the burgeoning potential of Iranian animation on the international stage, as evidenced by the film's acclaim and multiple festival nominations.
TOMORROW distinguishes itself through its visual artistry and emotional depth in an arena filled with animated shorts. Feiz's blending of story and art makes TOMORROW a must-watch and a cultural piece of cinema that underscores the power of animation to inspire and move audiences across the globe. This film is a treat for the eyes and a soul-stirring reminder of the small yet significant triumphs that define the human experience.
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[photo courtesy of BADSTACHE ANIMATION STUDIO, RISING TIDES FILMS]
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