Although IMDb lists this film as released in 2005, I guess this is the first time it was on a DVD because in reality this short film preceded the film Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow by some 7 years. The plot of the short is essentially the starting point for the feature film, with a journalist looking into the disappearance of a scientist when suddenly New York City is attacked by flying metal robots. Indeed it is very like the full film but with one very key difference – this short is all of 6 or 7 minutes long, and this makes a great deal of difference to how well it works.
I did love the feature for its effects, style and generally very well done blend of 1930's but futuristic at the same time – it was very pleasing to watch but just a shame that the plot and performances were not up to the same level, ultimately seeing the film underperform and not progress. With the short film the stakes are lower, the need for full plot is less and by presenting it as a chapter in a 1930's serial, it doesn't matter that it doesn't complete the full story because the short is all about the style of these serials but mixed with the sci-fi content. It is very cleverly done with very good effects and very good eye for the style and camera angles of the time – perhaps it is more familiar of films aping that period, but either way it does it very well.
Of course it is lucky to be free of the need of exposition and plot and characters and just get by on style, and unfortunately the full film indicates that it couldn't make that leap, but for a short film it works very well, with cool design, effects and delivery.
