A truly beautiful short with an old fashioned feel, it imparts a sense of rightness and wonder. I saw it at a film festival in Spokane. It displays a great deal of talent on the part of its creator. The caterpillar seems puzzled and innocent and yet demonstrates an unflagging determination. Throughout the entire eight minutes no words are spoken while so much is communicated by nonverbal signals, frustration, disappointment, haughtiness, and dispassionate rejection. The parable seems to be forgiveness and empathy. A very thoughtful piece, and as is often the case with truly artistic animation, it has a richness of supporting detail that adds a subtle and very real authenticity. In listening to Josh Staub, the creator, afterwards, he said, "There is no way to make a living creating pieces like this." Too bad. The Mantis Parable is worth seeing, and one of those films I find myself thinking about for weeks afterwards.
