Sometimes we find ourselves impressed by the simple things in life, the things that when done correctly become highly moving and meaningful… take hand puppetry for example. It’s not everyday that we run across a video of a painted hand, complete with plastic googly eyes, and find ourselves deeply moved, but that’s exactly what this video “Fine” has done. A tribute to the great sacrifices soldiers around the world pay for their dedication to home and country, Italian filmmaker Virgilio Villoresi’s expressive hand gestures take us through the life of a solder, from his hopeful birth to his ultimate demise in combat.
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Inspired by the works of another Italian artist, Mario Mariotti, Fine’s short 2 minute 5 second run time is packed full of clever transitions and gestures that really bring the character to life, reminding us of the challenging transition from youthful exuberance to war hardened soldier many troops face following their calling. According to Villoresi, both the initial and final soundtrack, as well as the military salute of the last scene are a homage to Jiri Trnka’s masterpiece, The Hand.
Fine is an excellent film that speaks to the heart. I give it two thumbs up… with googly eyes.
