This is not a film for everyone. It is gloomy, slow, stark and minimalistic in setting, characterization, dialogue and imagery. But it is also stylish, moody and aesthetically innovative. Apparently John Bergin made this animated movie on his home computer, using images from his graphic novel of the same name. It shows. But I don’t say that in a negative way. It does have something of a DIY feel to it but that can be a welcome relief after seeing one too many overdone mainstream cartoons, like all the Disney shit out there.

I’m often bothered by American movies that suffer from All Style No Substance. In this case I would argue that the style of the film IS its substance and it succeeds quite well in that way. (Which is not to imply that there is no narrative, just that it is quiet and secondary to the art). But I can’t really recommend this film unless you are a particular type of person. If you are patient, mellow, and just want to soak up something atmospheric and dystopian you may well enjoy this rather hopeless ride but if you are, say, into action movies or physical comedies and think kittens and shit are cute, then maybe it’s not for you.

[rating:35]