Shorts Program IV
Started: 1/24/10 | Walked Out: after the 5th of 7 shorts
To be honest, we left because we needed to make another screening. But the way this program was going, it’s doubtful the final 2 films would be anything more than mediocre.
I really thought I would be in for some refreshing and pleasant surprises, but Shorts Program IV was just abysmal. Aside from the opener (Wisdom Teeth by the always great Don Hertzfeld), the films were shockingly unoriginal, way too long, and oftentimes lacking in any sort of distinct message.
While the shorts didn’t do themselves any favors in the entertainment department, it would be unfair not to blame the programming for much of my disappointment. Wisdom Teeth set a tone for the whole presentation— one might expect to see more comedy, or gross-out sound work, or animation, or even something tongue-in-cheek. But after the taut and simple story of a man pulling wisdom teeth stitches out of his friend’s mouth, we were treated to some absurd melodramatic grad student films that really fell flat and dragged on for way too long. The films likely would have played better if they were programmed more appropriately.
Yes, I am a stickler for the short film format, but only because I think it has so much potential that is yet unrealized. But when filmmakers fall into common short film traps (examples here), and are still rewarded with prestige at one of the most regarded film festivals in the world, it is difficult to not be a bit disheartened.
