Synopsis:

A prince called Kalendar falls in love with a prostitute, Scherazade, who’s under the protection of an evil witch. Thanks to his friends and the help of a goddess, he frees Scherazade.

Review by Parker Jesse Chase:

Michele Stella’s “Scherazade’s Cloak” is an enchanting journey into a world of love, dreams, and the magical threads binding them together. Set against this extravagant backdrop of biblical and mystical folklore elements, the film tells the story of Prince Kalendar’s love for Scherazade, a prostitute protected by an evil witch, and the extraordinary lengths he goes to free them with the help of his brothers and a goddess.

The film begins by inviting the audience to gaze up into the clouds, as if we’re at heaven’s gates, leading us into the realm of dreams. The narrative unfolds in acts like a dream within a dream, with Kalendar as the bringer of feast and the swan, tied to Scherazade by a magnificent cloak. The importance of friendship and familial bonds encourages viewers to see one another as family, with statements like “Let’s feel like brothers.” adds definitive layers to the visual experience.

The destruction of the cloak becomes a pivotal moment, but the dream aids the brave, and with the help of a gifted sewing needle, Kalendar and his friends craft a new cloak for Scherazade. The film beautifully explores the ephemeral nature of dreams, suggesting these fantastical elements “never were but always are.”

The film’s execution is beautiful and artistically compelling. The cinematography seamlessly blends individuals into the lens, creating a visual tapestry becoming a part of the art itself. The production design, reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel, enhances the visual storytelling experience, with page master elements coming to life in the surrounding paintings. The costume design, hair and makeup, and production design collectively build a believable world in which effortlessly transports the audience into the heart of the story.

The narrator, with an expressive dialect, skillfully captures and allures the audience deeper into the unfolding narrative. Despite the witch’s opposition, viewers find themselves emotionally invested in the couple’s journey, especially as the torn cloak becomes a symbol of rebellion and resilience.

“Scherazade’s Cloak” is a visually stunning short in which captivates with its embellished cinematography and expressive storytelling. The film successfully marries its artistic freedoms with classical storytelling elements, resulting in an overall visually enchanting experience.

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