‘Prazinburk Ridge’ brings to life a poignant true story from the First World War, and does so with tools that completely eschew sentimentalism, a characteristic that often weighs down stories dealing with similar subjects and themes. On the contrary, it presents a sophisticated, moving narrative about the courage of Douglas Clark, a celebrated English football player who was enlisted in the national armed forces during the War. 

Intrinsic to the narrative are ideas of resilience and bravery, even in the face of mortal peril. However, what works most beautifully when it comes to the narratorial progression, ensuring each of these emotions and sentiments is allowed the attention it deserves, is the animated treatment by the one-man crew of the film. 

An Impressionistic visual style of dynamic boundaries, devoid of harsh, fixed lines, portrays the film’s reality for us. Despite the grimness of the subject, the loud riot of colors before you keeps your attention engaged throughout. The filmmaker’s intentions are painted using a 3D graphics tool, Unreal Engine, further exhibiting a true triumph for animation storytelling, while also ensuring that this particular narrative that hyper-localizes itself to a single moment during the First World War, stays with you long after you are done interacting with it.

Prazinburk Ridge | Short Film of the Day

A beautiful, shadowy world gives the viewer a glimpse into the life of British boxer Robbie Chapman, professionally known as the Camden Caretaker. By the interweaving of the visuals with the voiceover, a realm defined by perseverance and determination is conjured. 

The camera work is especially notable in capturing the swiftness and sturdiness of an athlete’s lived reality, along with imbuing it with a sense of the personal and intimate. The consequent narrative is defined by a sleekness that is at the core of any film that endeavors to explore a sport or a character rooted deep within it. Though not an easy task to undertake, 'Diamond in the Dirt' does a remarkable job of achieving its goals. 

Much like the boxer, all of the film’s punches land, ensuring that the viewer remains involved in its crisp brevity. The choice of words, as well as the visuals, shows control and thought, allowing the end result to succeed by all measures.

Diamond in the Dirt | Short Film of the Day

The setting of the film is a mundane basketball court where two men practice before an important game. At first glance, the seemingly harmless location fulfils the purpose of completely concealing the disconcerting unease that simmers beneath the obvious. As the brothers' practice session continues to progressively increase in intensity, a past riddled with unresolved anxieties and tension is revealed to the viewer. Despite the outdoor location of the story, a sense of emotional claustrophobia is invoked by using swift shots placed in quick successions. With the staccato that is conjured by the heated exchange of the characters, this sentiment is further driven home loudly and clearly. In the process, Pregame also becomes a comment as well as an engagement with the many layers of familial dynamics, allowing this particular thematic concern a fitting closure at the conclusion of the story. The film is notable in the manner in which it employs limited resources to enhance and supplement the portrayal of its story. Additionally, a sincere interaction with its subject matter allows it to put forth a convincing narrative about a pregame and all that it comes to stand for in the lives of two brothers.

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