Other highlights within this segment include “Empire” by Edouard Salier, which pictures a seemingly idyllic American middle-class life with the frequent image invasion of military weapons, equipment such as submarines, tanks and helicopters. In this case, the final visual outcome is fragmental; a supposed solid, comfortable and guaranteed Pax Americana turns to be so fragile ever.

“Into Pieces” is a quirky short Guilherme Marcondes produced at Lobo, a purely fun animation which explores the notion of the guy who tells you the answer to the puzzle even when you didn’t intend to ask. The most successful detail is the subtle changes of facial expression in the main character, as well as its excellent pacing and sound effect which were done by Paulo Beto. I really love the insertion of audience claps, unexpected but, at the same time, true to the meaning of the story.

Directed by Joji Koyama, “Watermelon Love” is inspired by a true story that cube-shaped watermelons were grown in Asia. “Flawed but worth watching” is how Koyama describes this perfect-looking animation. Like a bizarre ritual, it guides viewers through the eating of bright red watermelons and the growing of plants.

The 52nd Sydney Film Festival (SFF)
Date: June 10th – 25th, 2005
Place: The State Theatre, Dendy Opera Quays, The Studio
info@sydneyfilmfestival.org
http://www.sydneyfilmfestival.org