NEW SCI-FI SHORT GATHERS STEAM AT FESTIVALS
by Russel Mobley, MTA Editor
August 31, 2010
Photo: Justin and Kevin Eslinger at the wrap party for their short film, NICKEL CHILDREN. Russel Mobley/MTA
The Eslinger brothers are another dynamic duo on track to make their mark in cinema.
Often compared to filmakers Joel and Ethan Coen, they too switch roles as they work on their short films. Although, Kevin tends to do the writing and directing, while the younger Justin, concentrates on animation and special effects.
Their recent effort, a "steam punk" action adventure, Nickel Children, will be shown at this weekend's Dragon*Con in Atlanta, Georgia.
Steampunk's origins can be traced by to the 1980s. Although it shares some elements with another sub-genre of science fiction, it has its own unique characteristics. In alternate worlds, steam power and Victorian culture mix with the technology of much later periods, sometimes even the computer age.
Nickel Children takes place in the late 1800s. The 15-minute short revolves around the kidnapping of a young boy and his enslavement in a pint-sized, fight-to-the-death club.
As soon as the first scene unfolds (an homage to Sergio Leone's spaghetti westerns), you are aware that this is no ordinary short. Quickly taken into dark and skewed universe, you encounter one after another intriguing other-worldly characters. The action is fast-paced.
The cinematography of Nickel Children is amazing. The Eslinger brothers both studied cinematography at Watkins College of Art, Design and Film in Nashville, Tennessee. And their considerable skill is evident in each frame.
