Proximity

Proximity is a short film directed by Joshua Cox about the fate of a love triangle composed of ceramic figurines. As the name indicates, the short makes extensive use of one of the essential elements of filmmaking: the juxtaposition of elements to create meaning that does not exist in the isolated elements themselves, a technique known as montage (the term refers to the editing technique but in this case the juxtaposition of elements also takes place within the frame). The film avoids using common codes for transmitting characters’ emotions to the audience (facial expressions, body language, sound, etc.), relying heavily on montage to create narrative and conflict. It’s interesting to note that the restrained performance and lack of mobility actually increases the tension in some of the shots.

Staged in two rooms of a house populated with old furniture and ceramic statues, Proximity employs a photorealistic aesthetic that makes notable use of CG. Most of what shows up on screen has been created using 3D software. The film makes great use of timelapse sequences and changes in lighting and weather to depict passage of time, and with that it introduces supernatural elements that drive the narrative towards the unexpected, adding a great element of surprise. Humor, expressed with restraint, is also present throughout the short, right up to the ending.

Due to the lack of mobility of the ceramic statues, visual rhythm is handled mostly via editing and changes in lighting (plus a few camera moves and the duster that shows up in some shots).

According to the director, knowing that he would have no animators at his disposal for producing the short helped him come up with the idea to make a film dealing with ceramic statues. The focus on human relationships helps give the short a wide appeal.