A couple prepare a small celebration in their house one night, partaking in an occasion opposite an empty chair across the table. Meanwhile, the night skies temporarily shine bright as a protostar (or in this case, a starling) fumbles its landing on the ground.
Despite clocking in at just under 10 minutes, “Starling” packs an emotionally poignant punch. Without writing a single line of dialogue, director Mitra Shahidi delicately captures the depths of grief, offering a profound exploration of human emotions that makes it even more compelling.
Blending in: A scene from “Starling.” (Photo: Tribeca Festival 2023).
A Story Inspired by the Filmmaker’s Memories of Childhood and Personal Loss
As an international collaboration among a community of diverse artists and animators across the globe, “Starling” brings to life filmmaker Shahidi’s childhood during the ‘90s Istanbul. A bustling night market alongside, men playing Tavla, coffee sessions at night, the feral cats — the animated short depicts them all in full 2D glory.
These, however, provide the perfect juxtaposition to the somber mood in one particular household. Fortunately, an adorable pudgy starling still fumbles its way to where it needs to go, and which might help lighten the mood. In the end, we get to understand why the little star landed in the first place. And it’s a reveal that’s almost guaranteed to put a lump in the audience’s throat.
Also inspired by the loss of Shahidi’s childhood friend in 2018, “Starling” movingly captures the essence and emotion of that loss. It was produced through Pixar’s co-op program which allows employees to leverage equipment available at the studio to further their own creative pursuits in their free time. And Shahidi, having worked on the Pixar film “Luca“ and the upcoming “Elio,” manages to tell a story that feels familiar yet remains emotional.
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Happy birthday: A scene from “Starling.” (Photo: Tribeca Festival 2023).
A Delicate Animation About Loss and the Emotions that Go with It
I really find the storytelling both thoughtful and thought-provoking. Shahidi carefully constructs an otherwise-predictable narrative that weaves together various elements, capturing the complexity of grief and its impact on different aspects of life.
And working with a team of fellow Pixarians and award-winning animators, Shahidi combines the tender storytelling and technical craftsmanship that further enhance the viewing experience. ‘Starling’s’ visuals and playful score evoke a range of emotions, culminating in a heartstring-tugging scene to the tune of ‘Happy Birthday’.
“Starling’s” themes of grief and loss also invite another possible emotion in the long run — healing. Long after the credits roll, the short’s final act might stick in the audiences for a while.
“Starling” will have its world premiere at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival.
