Canned Performance

About This Movie

Canned Performance is this quirky piece from 1977 that really pushes the boundaries of animation and live action. It has this offbeat charm, a mix of absurdism and fantasy, featuring a desolate landscape where our traveler encounters a monster emerging from a Coca-Cola can. The stop-motion work is quite distinctive, blending seamlessly with the live action, giving it a unique vibe. Hoyt Yeatman's involvement as an animator and special effects artist definitely shines through, making it stand out in the world of student films. The pacing is oddly mesmerizing, almost dreamlike, which adds to the film’s surreal atmosphere.

Canned Performance is a relatively obscure gem within the UCLA Film and Television Archive, which adds to its allure for collectors. The mixed media approach and Hoyt Yeatman's unique style offer a fascinating glimpse into experimental animation from the era. While not widely circulated, it has garnered interest among niche collectors who appreciate the intersection of student art and commercial culture. As more collectors recognize its inventive approach, it remains a sought-after piece for those intrigued by avant-garde cinema.