SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL 2023 review! unicorn boy It begins with real-life footage that writer-director Matt Kiel has personally acknowledged since 2016. And before we even have time to process this statement, we are thrust into the world of animation with Matty, a character voiced based on Keel.
Animated with moderately red curly hair and large, expressive eyes, Matty’s vibrant appearance stands out in an apartment setting with hints of bright pink and harsh white. It has a nice outline, but it’s Matty that grabs your attention. They peek out the window for a while before sitting on the couch with their mugs. Finally, Matty looks exhausted and gently tosses the phone in frustration.
And suddenly, a swift-footed unicorn appears and wreaks havoc in Matty’s living room. With rainbow streaks everywhere, Matty couldn’t be more confused. We don’t know exactly what happened, but they spend the day meeting up with their eccentric friend Seth Ward (voiced by comedian Seth Ward) to talk about recent events. I am plagued with heartbreak and struggling with my identity.
The unicorn is back, this time taking Matty to another dimension. This new dimension is full of color. The world’s mountainous, lush terrain is gorgeous and home to magical creatures large and small. Traveling through an unknown and fantastical dimension, Matty ponders their happiness and gender identity.
The film is full of pastel shades and a breezy style with an emotional undertone.So much love and effort went into making unicorn boyA world created by Kiel himself that emits a brilliance that cannot be thought of as being of this world. From the creature designs to his Matty characterization, to the squashing and stretching of characters and their expressions, Kiel’s attention to detail and robust character his arc cements his talent as an animator and storyteller.
But this journey of self-discovery is not without pleasant absurdities. There are quirky characters that fly, shapeshift, and banish. At times it makes a poor attempt at comedy, but it’s still vividly animated. Halfway through, Matty returns to reality and the film begins to run out of fuel. But Kiel regains the enthusiasm in a delightfully frenetic, iridescent finale, reinforcing their intention to show that being true to yourself is never easy, but it can be rewarding and empowering. To do.
Voiced by Keel, Matty finely imbues their character’s tone with hesitation and dejection, but not to the degree that Matty hates them. One of the better attempts. The all-around voice acting is outstanding, but Patton Oswalt’s voice in particular is so welcoming and recognizable that his voice alone enlivens the rather syrupy monologue at the end.
unicorn boy is a heartfelt comical depiction of what it means to be satisfied with your own skin. It may take a little imagination and perspective to figure out who you are.When unicorn boywhich is exactly what Kiel does, hoping to inspire others to embrace their true selves.
unicorn boy Screened at the 2023 Slamdance Film Festival.
