Film Archive

Jahr

Land (Film Archive)

Filmstill Drijf

Drijf

Drijf
Levi Stoops
International Competition Animated Film 2023
Animated Film
Belgium
2023
15 minutes
Dutch
Subtitles: 
English

She and him, naked on the holiday seas in the bright sun. It may sound idyllic, but it is hell for Aurora and Jeremy. In search of funny dolphins, the two are paddling without orientation in the limitless expanse of water, no land in sight. Complete with dangers from above and below in the shape of heat and sharks. And at the centre of events is a near-defunct relationship. The roles are well-practised and grating, uptight lust is satisfied only solo.

Instead of roaring waves, it is above all the relentless silence of the sea surrounding them that provides the tension of the film. It is occasionally released in brilliant miniatures, for example a witty argument, or clumsy physical comedy. Another time, we are shocked by action-filled horror moments triggering absurd chain reactions. Whether it is the glaring light on the brutally calm water and the clueless couple, the visual fumes of decay one can almost smell, or a super dynamic dive – Levi Stoops’ direction is magnificent and timed with utmost precision.

André Eckardt

Credits DOK Leipzig Logo

Director
Levi Stoops
Script
Levi Stoops
Cinematographer
Camiel Hermans, Sarah Menheere, Karolien Raeymaekers, Levi Stoops
Editor
Levi Stoops
Producer
Annemie Degryse
Sound
Paulo Rietjens, Arnout Colaert
Sound Design
Paulo Rietjens
Score
Mick Lemaire
Animation
Camiel Hermans, Sarah Menheere, Karolien Raeymaekers, Levi Stoops
World Sales
Annabel Sebag
Nominated for: mephisto 97.6 Audience Award