No Animals Were Harmed in the Making of This Film

About This Movie

This curious short film, directed by an unknown hand, offers a bizarre blend of magic and dark humor. A magician pulls stuffed animals from his hat, only to examine them for blood, which creates this unsettling atmosphere that lingers. The pacing feels almost hypnotic, drawing you into its oddball premise. The practical effects, while simple, evoke a certain charm and contribute to the film’s distinctive tone. It’s a piece that leaves you contemplating the absurdity of life and the ethics of performance art. Definitely not your typical magician's act, it’s one of those films that makes you think, albeit in a strange, roundabout way.

This film has a somewhat elusive presence in collector circles, as it was screened only at the Edinburgh Film Festival and hasn’t seen widespread release or preservation since. Formats may be limited to festival recordings or rare VHS copies, making it a bit of a gem for those who cherish unique short films from the late 90s. Interest tends to be niche, but for those who appreciate unconventional storytelling and dark humor, it's certainly a curious piece to track down.