Cast
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Crew
Director
- Les Drew
Writer
- Les Drew
Producer
- William Pettigrew
- David Verrall
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Shyness represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Animation cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Les Drew brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1996, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Shyness took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 10 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 52 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 304 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1996, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Shyness shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Catopolis, which focuses more on action than character development, Shyness subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like 3-Way (Not Calling) and Bunny New Girl explore similar territory, Shyness stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 13, 1996
- Runtime: 10m
Where to Watch
