This short was nominated for an Academy Award for Animated Short. There will be spoilers ahead:
This short, done by Amanda Forbis and Wendy Tilby as a NFBC production, concerns the historical reality of remittance men, typically the second sons of wealthy families in England. Given that they were largely superfluous and often in the way, a large number of them struck out for "the colonies" to try to have some adventure and make their way in the world. The name "remittance man" springs from the fact that they generally got an allowance from home to defray their living expenses.
While the main character is a fictional creation himself, much of the background is based on the historical reality of such remittance men and the reaction of the people around them. Going out into the wilds of Canada in 1909 on what amounts to a lark in search of adventure isn't precisely the wisest thing one can do. The center of the story is probably a likable enough sort, he's just bitten off more than he can chew, with predictable if regrettable consequences.
His story and some information on comets are inter-cut, with the relationship between the two becoming more apparent as the short unfolds.
Visually, the short is beautiful, the story and plotting are exceptional and it's thoughtful thought-provoking piece.
This can be seen online at the NFBC website and is also available on DVD and is well worth seeking out. Most recommended.
This short, done by Amanda Forbis and Wendy Tilby as a NFBC production, concerns the historical reality of remittance men, typically the second sons of wealthy families in England. Given that they were largely superfluous and often in the way, a large number of them struck out for "the colonies" to try to have some adventure and make their way in the world. The name "remittance man" springs from the fact that they generally got an allowance from home to defray their living expenses.
While the main character is a fictional creation himself, much of the background is based on the historical reality of such remittance men and the reaction of the people around them. Going out into the wilds of Canada in 1909 on what amounts to a lark in search of adventure isn't precisely the wisest thing one can do. The center of the story is probably a likable enough sort, he's just bitten off more than he can chew, with predictable if regrettable consequences.
His story and some information on comets are inter-cut, with the relationship between the two becoming more apparent as the short unfolds.
Visually, the short is beautiful, the story and plotting are exceptional and it's thoughtful thought-provoking piece.
This can be seen online at the NFBC website and is also available on DVD and is well worth seeking out. Most recommended.