Anima

A hypnotic journey through dreams and sound.

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Synopsis

Anima is a visually stunning experimental short film directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, featuring Thom Yorke of Radiohead. Released in 2019, the film delves into themes of surrealism, dreams, and subconscious desires, presented through mesmerizing choreography and evocative imagery. Set to three tracks from Yorke's album of the same name, Anima invites viewers on an abstract journey that explores human vulnerability and emotion without relying on conventional narrative storytelling. The film’s hypnotic black-and-white visuals combined with Thom Yorke’s haunting music create a contemplative atmosphere, encouraging audiences to interpret the themes on a personal level.

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Reviews

Anima received a mix of critical acclaim and thoughtful analysis upon its release. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a positive rating, praised for its artistic ambition and sensory experience. Critics from The Guardian highlighted the collaboration between Yorke and Anderson, noting, "Anima is a striking fusion of music and imagery that pushes the boundaries of traditional filmmaking." However, some reviews pointed out that its abstract nature might not appeal to all viewers. Metacritic aggregated generally favorable reviews with a score reflecting appreciation for its artistry but acknowledging the film's niche appeal. IMDb users rated Anima with an average score of around 7.0/10, emphasizing its entrancing visuals while noting the absence of a conventional plot could challenge some viewers. Overall, Anima is celebrated as an evocative short film that combines innovative direction and haunting soundtracks, although its abstract presentation might limit its accessibility.