Every frame of Conor Whelan’s latest short, “My Darling’s Shadow,” is a beautiful study of composition, color and reduction of form.
I watched the film straight through twice, just relishing the way that diagonal foreground elements would slice across a scene or the way that figures emerged from negative space like perceptual puzzles coalescing somewhere between the screen and my mind.
Once you’ve checked it out, weigh in via the comments with your theory about the plot. Is it just a simple tale of revenge — or is there something else going on? Every time I watch it, I come up with a different conclusion.
Oh, and there’s also a nice easter egg in the close up of the key, when the name Conor’s former employer, Dublin-based Piranha Bar, is just legible.
Update: It’s just been announced that Conor is actually joining Vancouver-based Giant Ant (along with art director Eric Pautz from Roof in NYC).
Conor’s portfolio is full of more refined line work and elegant animation.
Credits
Design and Animation by Conor Whelan
Sound Design by Fab Martini
‘Look In My Eyes’ by The Chantels