That's Progress

About This Movie

That's Progress is an intriguing animated short from 1976 that really captures the tension between nostalgia and advancement. It employs a unique photographic montage of old buildings, creating an atmosphere that's both melancholic and haunting. The pacing feels deliberate, almost meditative, as it leads viewers through images of construction and demolition. It's this stark contrast that makes the film stand out in the animation genre, highlighting themes of change and loss with a certain ruthlessness. The practical effects and montage style are reminiscent of the era's experimental approaches to storytelling, giving it a distinctive edge that sets it apart from more conventional works.

'That's Progress' is relatively scarce in physical formats, primarily surfacing in niche animation collections or retrospectives focused on 1970s experimental films. The interest among collectors tends to revolve around its artistic approach rather than commercial success. It’s a lesser-known piece that offers insight into the era's attitudes towards progress and preservation, making it a worthwhile find for those who appreciate the more avant-garde side of animation history.