Existence: The Bastard Love-Child of Lynch, Jeunet and Gilliam

While speaking to friend and sometime contributor Jiangtou yesterday he slipped me a copy of Anthony Leonardi III's Existence with the observation that this was something I should probably write about. The man knows whereof he speaks. Leonardi's thesis piece for the AFI Existence clocks in at just under half an hour and is a beautifully designed, darkly surreal piece of fantasy that will have fans of Lynch, Jeunet, Gilliam and the like getting all hot and bothered. Am I surprised that Leonardi has been paying his bills working as a conceptual artist? Not a bit. Beyond the mind bending visuals the film also features what must be one of the final screen appearances by gentle giant Matthew McGrory, who sadly passed away last year. This film's website mentions Leonardi is now working towards a feature film and if this is any indiation of what the man is capable of he is definitely one to watch out for ...

Existence Website
Existence Trailer (downloadable Quicktime)