The Mirror Film Spotlight

Today’s film spotlight focuses on the short film The Mirror directed by Daniya London.

What is the title of your film and what inspired said title?

The title of my animated short film is ‘The Mirror’. It’s about an adult who has lost the meaning in his life and tries to connect to his younger self who magically appears behind the mirror.

Tell us a little bit about the story and origins of your film.

The story of ‘The Mirror’ starts with an adult man character, whose outlook on life has become bleak; his body language shows a life lacking in enthusiasm and passion. But when he looks into a mirror, he sees his younger self staring back at him. The kid mimics his partner’s every move, fluidly and effortlessly.

But animation truly comes to life when the kid is carried into the future with a breath-taking leap through the mirror and into adult man’s present life. The two selves twist and turn, feeding off one another’s energy. Finally, and with a stern look, young boy infuses his adult self with a renewed sense of purpose. Adult man turns away, and when he looks back into the mirror for his younger self, it is too late because his younger self fades away leaving the man all alone.

Any films or filmmakers that inspired this film?

I am inspired by the Oscar-winning animated short film ‘Dear Basketball’. It’s an admirable illustration of a poem, narrated and produced by Kobe Bryant, directed and animated by Glen Keane. Glen Keane has chosen to animate this film using the hand-drawn pencil technique and it conveys the story magically.

What is the goal of the film for you?

In my view, everyone has that little part inside of them which always remains as a child. The main goal of the film is to inspire and to wake your inner child before it’s too late. Learn to love, to spread happiness, be creative and live in the present moment.

What has the journey been like getting the film into production?

In order to express this idea, I was inspired by Glen Keane’s works and was keen to create a 2D animated short film. I admire the artistry of hand-drawn animation as it can be beautiful, magical, and so natural.

‘The Mirror’ animated short film is hand-drawn frame-by-frame in a digital way. The dance was choreographed by Travis Wall, 2 times Emmy Award Winner and 8 times nominee for Outstanding Choreography. The dance was performed by top American dancers: J.T. Church and Robert Roldan. The music was performed by British music band Blanco White, Yucatan Records. As a result, ‘The Mirror’ has been recognised by several film festivals around the world:

• ‘Most Inspirational Film’ and the Winner at Paris International Film Awards 2021

• Official Selection at Venice Shorts 2021

• Finalist at Paris International Short Festival 2021

• Finalist at The British Short Film Awards 2021.

One thing you learned from this project?

Discovering the art of animation was a revelation for me as it allowed me to combine all the things I love: drawing, movement, music, storytelling, and creativity. For me working with ballet dancers, musicians, and film producers is a wonderful way to bring together many different levels of emotions and express them in a way that, hopefully, helps to inspire others.

How can folks find you and your film online?

‘The Mirror’ IMDB page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15520630/

My Instagram: @daniyadee

Any last pieces of advice for fellow filmmakers?

Whatever you are dreaming or planning, start now, start immediately!

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