Prazinburk Ridge

Once again, I’m astonished at the creative lengths indie filmmakers will go to tell big stories with little to no budget. Such is the case with Martin Bell’s animated short, Prazinburk Ridge. As the United Kingdom entered the first World War, its leaders used live rugby matches to recruit young men into the military. Stepping up for the sake of his country was rugby player Douglas Clark.

Prazinburk Ridge tells the story of how Clark used his rugby skills on a dangerous mission. Said mission was through Prazinburk Ridge to bring much-needed ammunition to the front line. He was able to save himself and his fellow soldiers from gunfire, artillery, and gas attacks.

“…Clark used his rugby skills on a dangerous mission…to bring much-needed ammunition to the front line.”

How do you tell a war epic with no money? Why, animate it, of course. Not only does filmmaker Bell animate Clark’s exploits, but he uses rotoscoping and some beautiful watercolor techniques for realism and authenticity. In addition, his live actors are able to give him the facial and body performances needed to bring Clark to life. Bell then seamlessly moves between the rugby field and the battlefield.

In the end, Prazinburk Ridge captures the heroism of Douglas Clark and puts it on full display.

For screening information about Prazinburk Ridge, visit the Duggy Clark website.