“An artistic expression of inside the filmmakers mind.”

An experimental short about our love-hate relationship with Instagram and our photo-editing mania.

Director/animator Céline Ufenast has delivered an experimental short film that has been artistically crafted to precision. Before we explore the messages behind the film, it’s important to note that this film was animated by Ufenast alone which is particularly impressive.

The sheer scale of imagery used in the film would put off many filmmakers from attempting such a feat. Understanding how to edit such a film takes time and care which Ufenast does exceptionally well. All of the imagery was sourced online to perpetuate the core of the story. The images are then manipulated and cut in a way that feels disorientating and regurgitated, which was no accident. The cut of the film perfectly accentuates the message Ufenast is trying to tell.

The subject itself is not uncommon, but telling it in such a way is unique. The choice of images used throughout the film will encourage the viewer to consider their own relationship with social media and its impact. How the images are cut together is an editing achievement in itself and certainly worth noting to remind readers that this film was not made overnight. The time needed to create such a film would deter many filmmakers.

The dialogue in the film is somewhat chilling but an interesting perspective on the subject. Using the built in computer voice to deliver the lines adds to the monotony of the technology and drone quality of users which was a good choice. It was also interesting to read that the dialogue was taken from real interviews which only adds to the meaning behind it.

@scroll_alice shows great promise in Ufenast as a filmmaker and her unique approach to telling her stories. This is a unique film which is an artistic expression of inside the filmmakers mind. We look forward to seeing more of Ufenast’ work in the future…

— APEX Film Awards