Watch: Animated Short ‘Dying for Beginners’ – A Guide by Dr. Mannix

Watch: Animated Short ‘Dying for Beginners’ – A Guide by Dr. Mannix

by Alex Billington
December 18, 2023
Source: Vimeo

“We need to talk about it. Because talking about death will help us to live together better.” A fascinating, must watch animated short film made in London called Dying for Beginners, created by the filmmaker / illustrator Emily Downe. It’s just over 4 minutes and it’s a remarkably soothing watch despite the topic at hand. The intro: “Talking about death has become a bit of a taboo, but in this film, palatine care physician Dr Kathryn Mannix gently de-mystifies the process of dying. I hope it’s helpful.” The acclaimed author, speaker and former palliative care physician Dr Kathryn Mannix has spent her medical career working with people who have incurable, advanced illnesses. She is on a mission to reclaim the public’s understanding of dying. This film hopes to really begin the conversation and keep it going – you can find out more about her research & writings on her official site. The animation is so simple and comforting, and works well with this.

Thanks to Vimeo Staff Picks for the tip on this short film debuting online. Brief intro via Vimeo: “A short animation, voiced by Dr Kathryn Mannix, which guides you gently on a step by step journey through the process of dying.” Dying for Beginners is an animated short film directed and designed by the very talented animation filmmaker / illustrator Emily Downe based in London – you can see more of her work on her Vimeo page or visit her official website or follow her on IG @emilydowne. She studied animation at RCA and graduated in 2019. The film is animated by Martha Halliday. Featuring music and sound by Jan Willem de With. Produced by Theos with thanks to The Fetzer Institute. The words are written by and voiced by Dr Kathryn Mannix – you can learn more about her work and books about dying from her official website. For more info on the film, head right over to Vimeo again. To watch more short films, click here. Your thoughts?

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