Short Film Trailer: ON THE LAST DAY OF NAVARATHRI, Animation. India

Synopsis:

On the final day of Navarathri, a divine doll must face the fearsome fate that awaits her.

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Directed by Aarya Kalyansunder

Review by Parker Jesse Chase:

On the Last Day of Navarathri is a short film which takes viewers on a charming journey into the secret life of divine dolls on the final day of the Navarathri festival. Directed and animated by Aarya Kalyansunder, the film offers a unique perspective by focusing solely on the dolls, providing an intimate and endearing narrative.


The story begins with a dinner conversation between neighbors, shedding light on the challenges of old age and the significance of Navarathri customs like Tamboolam (return gifts) and Sundal (Channa). The film beautifully captures the essence of cultural traditions and holiday celebrations, offering a brief yet insightful glimpse into the lives of the characters.

As the guests depart, the dolls on the Sundal come to life, marking the beginning of the Golu Afterparty. The film skillfully introduces us to the dolls’ personalities, emphasizing camaraderie and a sense of community. The addition of Lakshmi, the newest member, sparks conversations and nostalgic reflections on past encounters with the altar.


Kalyansunder also lends her voice to the character Lakshmi, adding a personal touch to the film. The voice acting is well-executed, capturing the emotions of the characters and enhancing the overall viewing experience.


The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Lakshmi discovers the dolls’ limited annual existence and the fear of being kept in a box forever. A poignant moment ensues, highlighting the theme of imperfection and the acceptance of broken dolls. The film cleverly personifies these inanimate objects, turning them into relatable characters with emotions and concerns.

The animation, done by Kalyansunder, is vibrant and endearing, complementing the film’s overall charm. The decision to focus solely on the dolls’ perspective adds an intimate touch, allowing viewers to empathize with their fears and joys.


The pace of the short is quick, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. The title, “On the Last Day of Navarathri,” provides a clear and concise expectation of the story, and the film delivers on that promise. The absence of human characters visually enhances the connection with the dolls, making their animated world the focal point.


On the Last Day of Navarathri is a heartwarming and visually appealing short film successfully blending cultural elements, holiday traditions, and the magic of animated storytelling. Aarya Kalyansunder’s direction and animation bring the dolls to life, creating a memorable and enjoyable cinematic experience.

Short Film Review: HOLE PUNCHED EAR. Directed by Alan Yammin, Ben Tull

HOLE PUNCHED EAR, 8min., USA

Directed by Alan Yammin, Ben Tull

In a dystopian Chicago, a poet, bound by a strange countdown clock, struggles to finish a poem as her sister tries to free her.

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Review by Victoria Angelique

The remarkable, dystopian film HOLE PUNCHED EAR, employs cinematic filmmaking techniques that make the audience long for more from this short narrative. The story begins strong, with heavy rain pouring over a skyscraper that is later revealed to be a prison. Something bad is about to happen, the score and graphics set the stage to the point that if everything turned out okay, it would be a surprise. Fortunately the filmmakers, Alan Yammin and Ben Tull, do not disappoint. 

The futuristic setting is apparent within the first minute of the film, when Zorina’s arm displays a timer counting down that is imbedded into her skin. It’s not quite clear how this is possible, but it feels normal within this universe to the point that writing with a pencil and paper feels out of place. This gives the feeling that Zorina is very much out of her element within the prison as she awaits execution for a crime that in not revealed within the film.

This film could easily be turned into a feature film as the narration and visual cues leave the feeling of Faye desiring justice for her sister. It feels as if more is yet to come, while also being complete as a short film. It gives a cinematic feel with fantastic direction and acting. The beginning to the end makes this film intriguing, peaking curiosity with the desire to explore more of this particular universe.  

Yammin and Tull were able to tackle the premise of leaving the audience wanting more of this story. The set up of the universe is almost at an expert level, with stellar graphics and wardrobe to contrast the old world that Zorina is from despite the fact that she is about to be executed in this futuristic, dystopian society that is hell-bent on controlling people. 

Film Review: Doctor of the “Polish Eagles”/Doktór Polskich Orłów. Long Form short film documentary

Synopsis:

The film tells about the work of doctor Janusz Garlicki of the Polish national football team, which won, among others, the Olympic gold medal during the time of coach Kazimierz Górski.

All devoted fans of Polish football know well that Janusz Garlicki is one of the best Polish orthopedists who, as a sports doctor, participated in all the greatest successes of the Polish national team. It is worth noting, however, that after the end of this activity, he continued his professional career as the director of the Central Sports and Medical Clinic, a doctor at the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine and the director of the Capital Rehabilitation Center in Konstancin.

Review by Parker Jesse Chase:

“Doctor of the Polish Eagles”unveils the remarkable career of Dr. Janusz Garlicki, the unsung hero behind the success of the Polish national football team during the era of coach Kazimierz Górski. This documentary not only celebrates the team’s achievements, including the Olympic gold medal, but also sheds light on the crucial role played by Dr. Garlicki in the midst of their triumphs.


For devoted fans of Polish football, Dr. Janusz Garlicki is no stranger, being recognized as one of the finest orthopedists in the country. The documentary skillfully weaves together his journey as a sports doctor, chronicling his involvement in the pinnacle moments of the Polish national team’s history. From treating injuries to providing invaluable medical insights, Dr. Garlicki emerges as a pivotal figure in the team’s victories.

What sets this documentary apart is its central focus on Dr. Garlicki’s career. Following his active involvement with the national team, he seamlessly transitioned into diverse roles, becoming the director of the Central Sports and Medical Clinic, a doctor at the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine, and the director of the Capital Rehabilitation Center in Konstancin. This expansion of his professional horizons adds depth to the narrative, showcasing Dr. Garlicki’s enduring commitment to sports medicine and healthcare. It is to be said by his comrades, he may never fully retire.


The film finds its niche in exploring the intersection of on-the-spot physical medicine. It successfully captivates the audience with a rich tapestry of interviews, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes glimpses. The documentary becomes more than a mere sports film; it becomes a journey into the heart of Polish football, providing viewers with a rare and intimate perspective from someone who stood on the sidelines.

The director skillfully intertwines Dr. Garlicki’s personal anecdotes with broader insights into the evolution of sports medicine, creating a narrative that is not only informative but also emotionally resonant. The audience gains a profound understanding of the challenges faced by athletes and the crucial role played by medical professionals in ensuring their physical wellbeing. “Doctor of the Polish Eagles” stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of athletes, coaches, and medical experts, with Dr. Janusz Garlicki rightfully occupying a central place in this narrative. A compelling documentary that transcends its sports genre, offering a captivating exploration of Polish football, the triumphs of the national team, and the indelible mark left by Dr. Janusz Garlicki on the field and in the realm of sports medicine.

Project Links

Short Film Review: THORNWHIP EXPLORATIONS. Directed by Chase Korzep

Synopsis:

In this short comedy film, Australian wilderness expert, Max Thornwhip, takes on the perilous Australian bush with his trusty partner, John Simmons. With danger lurking behind every corner, will Max make it out alive?

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Review by Andie Karvelis:

G’Day, ya alright? We’re travelin’ to the back of bourke for a bottler! Thornwhip Explorations ain’t crook and writer Michael Hooper is a right dag, mate. This clever parody of Steve Irwin’s adventures looks as if it could air on Animal Planet. Wonderful graphic logo of the show and Director of Photography Lucas Williams gives us that lush feel of being in the Australian outback.

Directed by Chase Korzed who gives us a hilarious rapport between Max Thornwhip, portrayed by Michael Hooper, and his trusty (reluctant) assistant John, played by Sina Tadayon as one adventure after another goes wildly wrong. It’s fair dinkum over the top light-hearted fun.