Donkeys Discover Universe in Desert Observatory

A captivating 15-minute documentary short, "Perfectly a strangeness," is emerging as an Oscar contender. The film uniquely follows three donkeys—Palomo, Ruperto, and Palaye—as they traverse mountainous terrain and stumble upon an abandoned astronomical observatory in Chile's Atacama Desert. Director Alison McAlpine sought to create a dialogue-free "tall tale," focusing on fundamental cinematic elements like shadow, light, and sound to convey the narrative.

The documentary offers a profound perspective, imagining the world through the eyes of these animals. McAlpine was inspired by observing donkeys near observatories during a previous project. The film uses anamorphic lenses and focused light to capture the galaxy-like depths within the donkeys' eyes, presenting a unique exploration of the universe as discovered by a creature experiencing it for the first time. It also shifts focus to the observatories themselves, offering a glimpse inside these scientific marvels.

With an ethereal score by hurdy-gurdy player Ben Grossman, the film has captivated audiences and critics alike. "Perfectly a strangeness" has received over a dozen awards at festivals worldwide, including top honors at the Chicago International Film Festival and Full Frame Documentary Film Festival. The film's success highlights its innovative blend of documentary and fiction, offering viewers a transportive and imaginative cinematic experience.