Synopsis:

A composer chooses to write music for “Alice in Wonderland” and by doing so accidentally opens a portal inside her piano, falls down the rabbit hole into the Wonderland and meets manifestations of different sides of her own character – Queen of Hearts and Jabberwocky.

Review by Parker Jesse Chase:

“Metamorfosi,” a whimsical journey into the musical wonderland created by composer Milana Zilnik, offers a delightful five-minute escape into the realms of imagination and self-discovery. Written and Directed by Arty Sandler, the film weaves a unique narrative centered around a composer’s accidental plunge into Wonderland through her own piano, blending elements of fantasy and music seamlessly.

The film opens with an exploration of the composer’s piano, symbolically representing the entrance to the rabbit hole. The subsequent descent, captured with a clever pull-back camera technique, introduces us to the surreal Wonderland—a world of floating musicians, trinkets, and captivating landscapes. The steampunk-inspired aesthetic adds a touch of eclectic creativity, reminiscent of the classic “Alice in Wonderland.”

Milana Zilnik, who not only composed the enchanting music but also portrayed the characters, brings the essence of Alice, the Queen of Hearts, and Jabberwocky to life. The visual spectacle is heightened by the meticulous production design by Sergey and Daniel Boyko, showcasing a breathtaking Wonderland that feels both magical and slightly surreal.

As the composer dances between her different personas, the camera skillfully captures her artistic process within the vastness of a whimsical forest. The introduction of Jabberwocky, adorned in a masquerade mask, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. The film effortlessly blends reality and fantasy, making the human presence seem both out of place and perfectly fitting within the Wonderland setting.

A standout moment in the film is this breathtaking wide shot of the composer perched upon a cliff, playing the keys of her soul, surrounded by the fantastical landscape. The film skillfully integrates a sword fight between Alice and Jabberwocky, with the composer transforming into a steampunk stagnant version of the villain—a symbolic representation of the internal musical notes within the composer’s creative mind.

While the sword fight sequence may be deemed mediocre, it serves its purpose in conveying the internal conflict of the composer. The transition back to reality, where the composer sets down her pen, provides a satisfying conclusion to the fantastical journey.

The music, composed by Milana Zilnik, serves as the heartbeat of the film. Well-paced and intricately woven into the narrative, it not only sets the scene but also tells a compelling story of its own. The collaboration with musicians such as Vitaliy Tkachuk, Yoed Nir, Boris Khodorkovsky, Phil DiMercurio, and Craig Akin enriches the auditory experience, creating a harmonious blend of instruments that complements the visual spectacle.

“Metamorfosi” is a testament to the creative prowess of its creators while tributing a classic tale, with director Arty Sandler orchestrating a visually stunning and musically captivating journey. The film invites viewers to delve into the depths of their imagination and embrace the transformative power of music. In just five minutes, “Metamorfosi” leaves a lasting impression—with a magical interlude that lingers even after the final note has faded