Editors Note: “Price is Right” is a running column from local film enthusiast Mr. Price. He reviews selected Strasburg Film Festival films. If he posts a negative review, then the Shenandoah Film Collaborative will respond within his reviews as to why we selected the certain film. By going about it this way, we can help ensure the reader that these are honest film reviews.
“BLWARH” is a bizarre animated short about a group of colorful blobs of clay living in a forest, one of whom leaves to chase a boat that sails across the rainbow. That is about the extent of any kind of plot in the film which, to some degree of success, leans more on a charming aesthetic than writing or character.
That is not to say the film completely lacks story or characters, but rather these things are more of a backdrop to the art and animation. The story of our protagonist’s quest is relatively low-stakes throughout, focused on showcasing the incredibly detailed design of the world. The minimalist writing is a choice that may not always be successful, but a risk the creators should still be applauded for making. This is better served by the fact that the world’s design works so well. The claymation and art design make the film a fun journey to witness.
“BLWARH” manages the difficult task of focusing on style without completely neglecting substance, the result being a fun and unique experience if not a profound and thought-provoking one. The creator’s vision is clearly on display here, and every inch of the film speaks to the dedication of the artists and animators responsible for this charming, strange world and its colorful inhabitants.
Shenandoah Film Collaborative’s Response: This is the first review that we felt that it needed an explanation. The reason why this film was selected for the Strasburg Film Festival was, as Mr. Price eloquently puts it, ““BLWARH” manages the difficult task of focusing on style”, and this film is enjoyable to watch. As for the plot, well that is debatable. We felt like this film was so enjoyable from an aesthetics standpoint, that it was worth a screening in our filmfest.
