Stash Short Film Festival: Comedy (2017)
In the Stash Short Film Festival: Comedy (2017), the films "A Tale of Momentum & Inertia" and "Fear of Flying" stand out because of their unique use of animation and comedy tropes. These shorts leverage well-known conventions to deliver their narratives effectively.
A Tale of Momentum & Inertia
This film utilizes the classic trope of the hero with a twist. The story revolves around a stone golem who hesitates before deciding to save a city from destruction. The comedic element comes into play when the golem's last-minute decision and his instant regret, which flips the tradiitonal hero trope on its head. The animation enhances the humor through exaggerated expressions and movements, making the golem's internal conflict amusing. The film also uses the "unexpected consequence" trope, where the golem's good dead causes more choas, adding to the comedy.
Fear of Flying
"Fear of Flying" demonstrates the trope of fearful protagonist overcoming adversity.The main character, a small bird afraid of flying south for the winter, is an example of this trope. The humor is both situational and character-driven, as the bird's attempts to avoid flying lead to increasingly humorous situations. The animation style, with its vibrant colors and fluid movements, enhances the whimsical and lighthearted tone of the film. The film incorporates the "redemption arc" trope, as the bird eventually faces his fears, providing a satisfying and uplifting conclusion.
What I find to be most interesting is how both films balance humor with deeper themes. "A Tale of Momentum & Inertia" subtly addresses themes of hesitation and unintended consequences, while "Fear of Flying" explores fear and personal growth. The use of animation allows these themes to be presented in a visually engaging and accessible manner, making the stories more impactful.
I believe the unexpected consequence trope really helped to add the most humor to a tale of momentum and inertia and also allowed the audience to see a deeper meaning. For example, because the village could tell the giant was saving them, and all they saw was a giant foreign thing they assumed they were in danger. But because they didn't see the whole picture their reaction caused them to be destroyed.
ReplyDeleteOne thing about the unexpected consequence that evokes thoughts of discussion for me is the fact that it tends to stick better in my brain. Something out of the ordinary or unexpected is highly memorable as it sets itself apart from every common scene. The aspect of comedy included in the unexpected further sticks a scene in my mind, also causing me to think deeper into the overall meaning and symbolism of it
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