Downtime: 3 short movies.

Down time. Its important.
Lately, I have really enjoyed watching the amazing variety of short high-def films offered up by Vimeo.
The availability of relatively low cost cameras and editing software has opened the way for some incredibly talented people to produce and distribute their movies. A far more rewarding exploration than a night in front of commercial TV methinks.

To give you some idea: here are 3 very different movies (although in some ways not all that different) that I lingered through this evening. I recommend that to really enjoy these movies you crank the volume just a bit and full screen each one. A cup of your best hot tea or coffee cupped in your hand is optional. Once you have tested these head out to find your own favourites:

Shinya Kimura.

This is a short film (2:45) about Japanese custom motorcycle engineer, Shinya Kimura. I really like the ambiance captured in this piece. The way the harsh engine noise and rapid paced cutting nestles into soft light and certain quietude of Shinya.
He speaks to me: Even amongst the craziness  of our work we can find silence.
But best of all I love the silver dented fuel-tank on his bike.

Here is the link to this movie.

Apricot

A slightly longer film (10:39), this is an Australian made story about remembrance. And a kiss.
Yes…hardcore nurses sometimes watch stuff like this.
You might note the not so subtle product placement, the film was sponsored by Nespresso, and in the credits its good to see they give credit to the nurse (Julie Deakins) on set.

Here is the link to this movie.

An exploration in craft

Yes this is pretty much a promotional video for Tanner Goods, a small leather goods manufacturer located in Portland, Oregon USA. But it is also a beautiful short film that shows the magnificence that can be found in simple acts if you can just slow down and soak.
For us it is not about making belts, it is about doing a simple dressing or placing a cannula, or taking a blood pressure. The bespoke quality captured in this film is available to us all. Attention to detail and pride in your craft.

Here is the link to this movie.