Òran na h-Eala

I have to say Steve Exeter did an exceptional job making this. If you're a fanatic of the movie "The Red Shoes" like I am then this is a must watch. Shannon Davidson's performance just blew me away right from the start from her confidence to her perfectly done makeup - just like Moira Shearer. Nothing was rushed from the looks of it, the editing, sound and the dialogue. Spot on! This is indeed award winning, I hope they get more eyeballs on this short film.

This film was a mesmerizing journey, a rare gem that transcends the ordinary! The fusion of brilliant writing, stellar performances, and breathtaking cinematography was so powerful that it felt as though I was not merely watching but living the experience. The characters, layered with emotional depth and complexity, held me spellbound from start to finish. It offers a rare, intimate glimpse into Moira Shearer's world just before "The Red Shoes" took the stage. Even in its brief runtime, the film etches itself into memory, leaving an indelible mark on the soul. My only regret? That it wasn't longer, allowing for a deeper dive into its intricate narrative and themes, a journey I would gladly embark on again and again.

This brief film is a rich tapestry of emotions and complexity, remarkably capturing a wide range of feelings within its short run time. The director has skillfully woven this nuanced yet clear story. The opening scene is particularly striking, drawing inspiration from "The Red Shoes" and laying the groundwork for a riveting and emotionally resonant experience. Shannon Davidson's portrayal of Moire Shearer is a standout, infusing the character with elegance and realism. It's a demanding role, but her execution is so authentic that it feels like watching the events happen in real time. Congratulations to Steve Exeter and the entire crew for their exceptional work. As someone who deeply appreciates "The Red Shoes," I found this film thoroughly enjoyable. It's highly recommended for everyone, even those not familiar with the original, particularly for fans of Òran na h-Eala.

I was truly honored to watch this film, and I was blown away by the meticulous detail and perfect setup from the very first frame. The soundtrack is equally outstanding, guiding the film seamlessly to its dramatic conclusion. I'd love to see behind-the-scenes footage or learn about the director's thought process during its creation. Despite being a short film, the immense effort and love put into it made it feel like a feature-length movie. I watched it with my friends from art school, and we all appreciated every aspect of this award-winning piece. Thank you for reviving the magic of cinema and inspiring us all.

"The Red Shoes", an English classic from 1948, has endured as an unforgettable film for several decades since its release. Directors, Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger made a film star out of the ever-gorgeous Moira Shearer, an up-and-coming Ballerina of the time. Her casting made perfect sense because their protagonist was also an aspiring Prima Ballerina. Moira was their ideal fit to the point of obsession. They pursued her for over a year before she finally agreed to accept the part.

The short film is just under 15 minutes long, yet it manages to touch our hearts by echoing the atmosphere of the role of Vicky Page and comparing it expressionistically to the very woman who brought her to life on the screen. Playing that pivotal role of Moira Shearer is Shannon Davidson, who seems to embody the character totally.

The use of mirror shots allows the audience to share her memories, reflecting on each moment with her. The theatrical lighting and stylized cinematography add to the dreamlike quality of the piece, achieving an authentic period look reminiscent of the original three strip Technicolor film.

"The Red Shoes" was a huge success at the time and went on to win Oscars, but Moira's struggle to choose between her passion for the world of ballet or the allure of cinema stardom, is what propels writer / director Steve Exeter's "Òran na h-Eala" making it one of the most vital short films of 2022.