Run

     A junior in high school, Curie Lu developed this short film for CAP Hollywood at Montgomery Blair High School. She won Best Picture and Best Art Direction for this contest. Lu did all of the animating with some others aiding in coloring.

     While many are left clueless by the ambiguous meaning behind the story (as only half of the story was animated due to the limited time Lu had), I believe it's centered around our education system. As the two characters get older, the instructors care less about their talents that are not centered around academics (like art for instance). This is demonstrated in our society today as standards push more towards "core subjects" like the sciences and away from the arts. They are in quotations since that phrase could have a broader definition than what is to be expected, although it does not. While English and math classes do prove to be beneficial, other courses like 2D Drawing or Music Theory would help students pursuing careers in those fields as well. Despite the benefits, many schools do not offer such classes nor even consider them in their budgets. To relate to the film without giving spoilers, this focus on the core curriculum limits the freedom a student has in developing their skills as memorization takes priority over talent.

     From an artistic point of view, the animation is impressive. Lu had the discipline to focus on her work as a sophomore and finish what was necessary in time for the deadline while she juggled with school and her life. There is barely a still or stiff frame in this, and every motion looks natural. The only scene that felt awkward to me was when the white-haired boy went towards what frightened him instead of backing away. However, I understand that Lu had to manage time wisely and that it was possible that it would be more difficult and more time-consuming had she went that route.

     The film is below for anyone who wants to see it.