Zoom

Zoom is a cleverly constructed fusion of live-action and animation, presented as a triptych narrative that cleverly intertwines three seemingly disparate storylines. Directed by Pedro Morelli and starring Alison Pill, Tyler Labine, and Michael Eklund, this 2015 film is a captivating exploration of self-identity, creative process, and the concept of control and manipulation in the art of storytelling.

At the epicenter of this unconventional storytelling method is Emma (played by Alison Pill), a talented comic book artist, who works as a sex doll manufacturer during the day and retires to the world of her sketches by night. In her animated world, she has created the dashing Edward (voiced by Gael Garcia Bernal), a confident and attractive action film director in possession of every trait she seemingly lacks in reality. As she manipulates Edward's story to outline her fantastical desires and repressed visions, his character gradually evolves within her narrative.

In contrast to her humdrum existence, Edward is seen living an action-packed life in glamorous Hollywood, complete with high-speed chases and striking femme fatales, all etched within the vibrant and explosive colors typical of a comic book world. However, inside this perfect bubble, Edward yearns for more authenticity and depth, leading him to write a novel about Emma, the 'real' girl beyond his brightly colored universe.

As the ambiguities of the creator and the creation get blurred, the third layer of the narrative comes in the form of Michelle (Mariana Ximenes), a glamorous model within Edward's script, being authored into existence through his novel. On the verge of a significant professional breakthrough, she finds herself navigating through a complex psychological maze of lust, ambition, and self-doubt.

The film weaves in and out of these three parallel storylines, with each character evolving with the adjustments made in the narrative of the other, thus creating a fascinating interplay between reality and imagination. The film uses the powerful medium of art, be it comic illustrations or film-making, to traverse the boundaries of these two worlds.

The performances are noteworthy, with Alison Pill as Emma drawing the audience into the vulnerability and innate strength of her character with equal ease. Tyler Labine as Bob, Emma's real-world boyfriend, shows impressive range in playing the unsophisticated, yet well-meaning love interest. Michael Eklund leaves a mark with his performance as Dale, Emma's lecherous boss, whose advances she skillfully dodges. Gael Garcia Bernal gives voice to the dynamic character of Edward, thereby infusing charisma and depth into his animated character.

The film also impresses with its technical finesse. With an impressive animation style resembling a moving graphic novel, Zoom presents a distinct visual feast that complements its unique narrative structure. The transitions between the live-action sequences and the animated world are seamlessly executed, thus maintaining continuity and fluidity in the storytelling.

Zoom provides an intriguing exploration of creative processes, the dichotomy between reality and imagination, the artist's impulses, and the often contradictory human desire for both control and freedom. It's presented in a visually striking manner, bridging the imaginary and the real, the mundane, and the fantastical. All these narrative and visual twists aside, the film also prompts laughter amidst its intriguing philosophical undertones, thereby arriving at a unique blend of drama, comedy, and surrealist fantasy.

However, Zoom is not a film for everyone. Its non-linear narrative and surrealistic approach require viewers to actively participate and invest in the story. It demands attention and rewards those who are willing to immerse themselves completely in its avant-garde storytelling style. For those who appreciate a departure from conventionality and a dive into the involving narrative chaos, Zoom promises to be a memorable cinematic journey. Without giving away any spoilers, let’s just say Zoom’s ending redefines the concept of a ‘full circle’.