Moon Cycle (I: bran stakhage’s moonlight; II: mercury retrograde)

About This Movie

Moon Cycle is an intriguing piece, really. It’s a direct animation that draws heavily from the aesthetics of the Sailor Moon anime but does its own thing. The first part, bran stakhage’s moonlight, dives into a surreal landscape, plays with colors that feel almost ethereal. The second part, mercury retrograde, shifts the vibe, weaving in themes of introspection and cosmic chaos. The pacing can feel a bit dreamlike, which might not suit everyone, but that's part of its charm. The practical effects stand out; they add a unique depth that complements the animation style. Overall, it feels like a meditation on the duality of light and shadow, and it’s refreshing to see such a creative spin on a familiar universe.

Direct animation styleSurreal landscapesThemes of introspection