Content/criticism
The fact that food that you have forgotten in the fridge no longer looks quite as it should is an experience that many people have at some point. In the animated short film Shrimp But it goes a whole lot further. The story begins with a woman in her kitchen noticing that there is a large puddle of water on the floor and that it obviously comes from the refrigerator. There is a simple shrimp in the completely icy freezer compartment, hence the title. Except this little snack turns into something much bigger, in the truest sense of the word. And at the same time something very small if the animal is a symbol of something else.
That’s kind of funny, even if it’s not entirely clear whether the short film that’s on the Puppet Filmfest 2023 premiered, should now be a comedy or should be taken seriously. The topic is from the four-person directing team Elina Huber, Jill Wagner, Noémi Knobil and Sven Bachmann implemented a bit too complicated. There isn’t much said in the five minutes, which is why the audience is allowed to piece together the story themselves. But even if the result isn’t as emotional as it could be, this is still worth a look. Shrimp I like the look with pastel colors, which is a bit simple but definitely pleasant to look at.
Credits
OT: “Shrimp”
Land: Switzerland
Year: 2023
Director: Elina Huber, Jill Vágner, Noémi Knobil, Sven Bachmann
Script: Noémi Knobil, Elina Huber
Music: Noah Loos
Film paint
Puppet 2023
NIFF 2024
Film school festival Munich 2024
Editor: Good day and welcome to our interview with two guests discussing the animated short film “Shrimp” that has been featured in this article. I have here with me Elina Huber, one of the directors of the film, and a prominent film critic who would like to remain anonymous.
Firstly, Elina, can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the film “Shrimp”? How did the idea of a shrimp evolving in size and significance originate?
Elina: Hello! The inspiration for “Shrimp” came from a personal experience when we were just cooking and found some food in the fridge that was no longer what it originally was. We decided to explore this concept and expand on it, adding metaphorical layers to the story. The shrimp became a symbol for something bigger as the story progressed.
Critic: Interesting. How did you approach combining comedy and thought-provoking elements in the film?
Anonymous: The film hits on some themes that are relevant today, but it doesn’t necessarily provide clear answers. Was this intentional?
Elina: Yes, we intentionally wanted to leave room for interpretation. Life isn’t always black and white, and we wanted the audience to reflect on the different meanings the film might hold for them. We hope it sparks conversations and encourages people to think beyond the surface.
Critic: I see. Can you talk about the visual style and color palette used in the film? It’s quite unique and contributes to the overall atmosphere.
Anonymous: Absolutely. The pastel colors add a dreamlike quality that complements the abstract storytelling. What was the creative process like when designing the characters and settings?
Elina: We had a lot of fun designing the characters and settings! We went for a simple yet pleasing aesthetic, using minimalistic lines and bold colors to emphasize the surreal aspect of the story. Our puppeteers also played a big role in bringing the characters to life, adding their own unique touches.
Critic: I see. And it seems to have paid off, as the film has already premiered at Puppet Filmfest 2023 and been selected for NIFF 2024. What are your hopes for
