Watch: Unique Stop-Motion Animated Short ‘Solar Plexus’ About Grief

Watch: Unique Stop-Motion Animated Short ‘Solar Plexus’ About Grief

by Alex Billington
November 21, 2023
Source: Vimeo

Once again another magnificent animated short film that shows the extraordianry potential of animation as a storytelling medium. There’s so much that can be visualized with animation techniques. Solar Plexus is a stop-motion short created by UK-based filmmaker David McShane. It was originally his graduation film from the NFTS in the UK, premiering in 2019 and playing at Cannes and numerous other festivals. It went on to win Best Sound Design awards over the past few years. In the film, Noah battles to overcome his grief at the death of his mother, a journey that takes him from his flat to beyond the stars. A mesmerizing short featuring stop-motion animated characters and oil paint for additional scenes. I really like the unique “neon green” look of the character, and the darkness of his flat. And the oil painting sequence is really stunning as well. The film is under 10 mins & worth a watch. McShane seems like a unique filmmaker to keep an eye on.

Thanks to Vimeo Staff Picks for the tip on this one. Brief intro via Vimeo: “Noah has not accepted the death of his mother – an astronaut. In order to move on, he must break that which still connects them…” Solar Plexus is an animated short film directed by London-based animation filmmaker David McShane – you can see more of his work on his Vimeo or visit his official website or follow him on IG @davidjmcshane. He is “particularly interested in stories that explore queerness, technology and disconnect. I love to infuse these tales with fantasy elements and stop-motion craft.” This short is his graduation project from the NFTS in the UK – it originally premiered in 2019 at Cannes in the Cinéfondation. The screenplay is written by Jessica Sinyard. Produced by Paida Mutonono. With cinematography by Lily Grimes, and music by William Turner. For more info on the project, visit David’s site or Vimeo. To discover more short films, click here. Thoughts?

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