A Haunting Soundscape: Stimulus Package by Felix Fan
By Rhea Mursalin George Tsontakis’s Stimulus Package is a gripping musical journey, masterfully performed by cellist Felix Fan, pianist John Novacek, and percussionist Alyun Huang. The composition’s fast-paced, tension-filled arrangement immerses the listener in an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue. Tsontakis’s expertise shines through his intricate layering of sound, building an almost anxiety-inducing intensity that keeps...
Gone: A Poignant Reflection on Friendship and Loss
By Juan P. Voorduin Directed by Hunter Nickless, Gone is an emotional teen drama that delves into themes of friendship, loss, and personal growth. The film follows Luca, a teenager struggling to adapt to a new life in the countryside after moving away from his best friends, Lindsey and Ali. Though he stays connected via video calls, the distance leaves him feeling disconnected. Nickless masterfully plays with audience expectations,...
Dying to Defrost: A Hilarious Twist on Vampire Lore
By Adi Moonilal Directed by Heather Ann Abeyasekera, Dying to Defrost is a whimsical, comedic take on vampire lore, flipping the traditional dark narrative on its head. Instead of brooding shadows, this 2D animated short presents a centuries-old vampire desperate to escape eternal cold. With its bold, flat colors and exaggerated character movements, the film bursts with comedic energy. The humor is perfectly timed, with playful...
Tarot Comes to Life: Instruments of Revelation Ballet
By Serena Wooten Instruments of Revelation is an enticing ballet from the innovative mind of creator/composer Victoria Bond, performed by Ballet Chicago. The ballet offers a musical and visual interpretation of a fascinating concept—tarot, specifically three cards from a traditional tarot deck: The Fool, The Magician, and The High Priestess. When I first heard about the story behind this ballet, I was curious and unsure of what to...
23THSR: A Hypnotic Fusion of Dance and Digital Art – from Mimi Garrard
By Juan P. Voorduin Mimi Garrard’s 23THSR is a mesmerizing dance film that continues Garrard’s exploration of the convergence of innovative dance techniques and visual effects with extravagant patterns. The film features dancer Samuel Roberts, who performs to an enigmatic synth score by composer Tom Hamilton. Throughout the 10-minute piece, Roberts’ movements blend with shifting backdrops and repeated kaleidoscopic visuals, creating...
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