“Feast” director’s new short “Pearl” uses VR to make you a part of the story

Patrick Osborne, director of the the award winning Disney short “Feast,” has created a new short that takes the viewer right into the world of the story. Not everyone has access to view Virtual Reality, but thanks to Google 360, any viewer with a smartphone or a computer can enjoy this short.

“Pearl” follows a man and his daughter as they grow older and face different stages of life. Set completely within their family car, the short chronicles their travels as they celebrate different friendships, the power of music, and their relationship with one another. The short features a song called “No Wrong Way Home” by Alexis Harte and JJ Weisler – a catchy, heartwarming tune that you’ll find yourself humming along to.

While the animation may not be as clear as “Feast,” this short definitely brings viewers one step closer to the idea that we can not only view, but also literally be located within, the stories we watch. For now we’re still only able to be observers rather than participants in the story, but it is special to be able to find yourself right beside the characters of the short. It’s very fun to spin around and around while viewing, and it definitely warrants a second or third watch to catch small, hidden details you may have missed the first time around.

Check out Osborne’s new short (make sure you’re using a desktop computer or the YouTube app!)  – perhaps we’ll see even more VR animated films in the future!

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