Here is another VFS feature animation. This one is better than “Kiss the Frog,” content and technical wise.

I like the introduction of both old and new modes of animation. The two-dimensionality of the buildings composes the background, and the three-dimentionality of the foregrounded objects is obviously the most significant aspect of the animation. The flat and amateur drawings of skyscrapers are placed behind the detailed benches and lightposts. There is a contrast between traditional and novel style of animation. The simplicity of the animation is what works well in the video. It avoids distracting the viewer from the plot.

However, the idea of an angry-looking mime who uses a small prop is difficult to digest. The presence of the balloon challenges the very essence of the science of miming. He is no longer miming here; we can’t guess what the artist is gesturing because the object disrupts the charade. The fun of speculating is dissolved.

What disturbs me the most is the mime’s annoyed expression, struggling with the balloon, and his devious scheme to burden another mime with his problem. He does not appear to be nice a mime a kid would want to play with or approach for that matter.  I wouldn’t go near an angry mime; they are scary enough as it is.

Oddly enough, the character reminds me of the ill-witted buffoon, Mr. Bean,  made famous by Rowan Atkinson. This situation is something he might get himself into.

The verdict: three McLaren-Hen-Hop over five