JUS RECOMMENDS

We love shorts at “One Layer Deeper.” An artist is given a restricted amount of time to express a complex idea and has to get in, make a point, and get out fast. That’s why we adore “Only You: An Animated Shorts Collection.”

“Only You” offers a range of stories — from battling one’s demons to being the new neighbor, in around six minutes each. The series draws from the minds of young, diverse directors and the animation styles are as varied as the topics.

The most engaging aspect of the series is the brave way that the directors infuse their cultures and identities into the storylines. There is imagery from Asia, the Middle Easter, the LGBTQI community and inner city life. It’s a rich tapestry of stories and here are a few favorites:

Best Energy

From director Chris Fequiere and writer Dara King, “Burning Rubber” is an authentic showcasing of handball in New York City. It totally captures the energy of the game and culture around the sport. The anime battle style is perfect for the fast-paced competition and that will have you craving glizzy dog, a NYC-style hot dog!!

Deepest Message

“Leech” represents the toxic cultures of body imagery in social media as a vampire. It deftly portrays a young Arab woman struggling with her body and navigating the pressure to look a particular way. Along the way, she abandons plants, family, and favorite activities. Eventually, she finds her way back to center, but it’s definitely a cautionary tale. Delivered by writer/director Aalaa Mohamed.

Favorite Animation Style

Writer/director Miriam Presas gives us “Aroon.” Her use of vivid colors and ode to stop-action animation using paper dolls are very creative. The battle tones are brilliant red. When the hero embraces his humanity, they cool to blue tones.

Funniest Story

“Welcome to 8th Street” is hilarious. It follows a young couple moving into a town in New Jersey, U.S.A. from California. Between Jimmy selling steaks out of the back of his truck to the old ladies gambling with their medication to a wild turkey getting knocked out of the sky, the randomness of the block feels familiar and possibly a reason to flee or possibly a reason to embrace the quirkiness. Kudos to writer/director Yoo Lee.

most engaging aspect of the series is the brave way that the directors infuse their cultures and identities into the storylines. There is imagery from Asia, the Middle Easter, the LGBTQI community and inner city life.

cultursmag.com/one-layer-deeper-polite-society-