In Mario Golfari’s unsettling animation ‘Puma’, we are pulled into the tumultuous psyche of a young writer teetering on the edge of vulnerability as she prepares to submit a manuscript to a publishing house. The narrative is a visceral experience of anxiety, a chilling exploration of the terror that lurks in the hearts of all creators. Golfari’s choice to embody this fear with a looming Puma at the publishing house is a stroke of genius. The predator is a metaphor for the perceived danger, amplifying the protagonist’s dread as they navigate what feels like a predator’s lair.
The film cleverly convey such intense emotions without a single word of dialogue. It’s a credit to Golfari’s storytelling and the evocative power of Manuel Benamo’s haunting score, which together create 2-minutes of suspense and psychological turmoil. The 2D animation is nicely crafted – the skilled artistry draws you deeper into the protagonist’s mind through the clever use of blueish colours.
‘Puma’ is an unsettling journey into the darkest corners of creative fear. Golfari captures the universal dread of exposing one’s innermost thoughts to the scrutiny of others, making the protagonist’s plight profoundly relatable. The sound design is impeccable, the narrative tight and compelling, creating a relentless pull into the protagonist’s anxiety-ridden world.
In just a few minutes, Golfari has created a powerful piece that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever faced the daunting prospect of sharing their creativity with the world. ‘Puma’ is a dark meditation on fear and is expertly executed.
