.png)
★★★★ Stars
Directed by: #BrunoDecc
Written by: #BrunoDecc, #IngvildSyntropia
Starring: #IngvildSyntropia, #GillerVandeweerd, #Shima
Out-of-Place Artefact introduces an elaborate plot following the steps of a modern day viking assassin named Aurora (Ingvild Syntropia.) This production has been stated to be produced as a web series in its entirety, but this review will focus upon ‘Act 1’ – viewing it as a short film.
The writing, and direction of such, is incredibly creative and unique. Each scene is brilliantly stitched together in a somewhat unconventional way, it’s thoroughly enjoyable to follow along with. The audience is required to give their full attention to the happenings within the film and it does not fail in providing attractive elements to hold said attention.
It is of upmost importance that a script matching this style of film is presented expertly to ensure that the audience is able to piece together the unfolding story; writers Bruno Decc (who is also the director of the film) and Ingvild Syntropia planned such a spectacular plot that only a few solid pieces of dialogue throughout can confirm the motives of each character and the main plot itself.
As well as the skilled writing and directing abilities, the editing of this film stood out to me more than any other aspect. I immediately fell in love with the colouring choices specifically. Firstly, in reference to the phrase ‘each scene is [brilliantly] stitched together,’ the beautiful landscape shots are joined like puzzle pieces. I take into consideration the fact that some viewers may find it unappealing to watch a film with so many cuts to, so far, unexplained scenes, paired with very little dialogue, but this film is not presented messily. It is not difficult to follow the plot and what is occurring within each scene, even if the scene only appears in a short burst in the middle of bigger buildups.
The pace of a film is kept with exquisite editing, and this film’s pace in particular was enhanced by its editing. The specific way in which scenes are shown to the audience creates a prominent atmosphere that grasps hands with the atmosphere that the script creates in itself. After watching, I greatly admire editor Paulo Leblon.
Linking to this, the colour grading, that has been carried out by Marcelo Rodriguez, is magnificent. The colour grading aspect of the film also pairs effectively with the other elements involved to create the intended ambience of the final product. Each scene possesses an underlying, earthly darkness that drags viewers into that world from start to finish. Even as I pinpoint those descriptive words, it is obvious that they perfectly match the intense plot line.
The soundtrack used for this film also struck me as soon as I pressed play. With tracks performed by Necessary Animals, the music that is used presses further for a deep and powerful setting throughout. The reoccurring sounds of an intense drum contrasting with a more high pitched piano being played simultaneously in the most prominently identifiable track, the uneasiness of the situations that Aurora finds herself in is strengthened greatly.
Out-of-Place Artefact is a stunning example of how every component within a film should link to one another and share the same energy. Not only was I impressed by the core writing of this film, but I was also impressed by the freeing sense of collaboration flowing through all known factors of the filmmaking process. I do hope, in the future, to see more of what this cast and crew have to offer to the life of Aurora.
.png)
