On the surface Swipe – an animated short film, explores religious intolerance, morality, violence and the motives behind it. It speaks through binaries and brings into view greater conversations around injustice, about who gets to decide who is innocent or guilty, and how power is distributed in our society. Underneath all this, however, it is a film that works towards making possible a way of expression and communication that is based on sincerity and vulnerability. It is a gentle, deeply poignant approach to talking about crucial issues that are otherwise instantly labelled controversial, and speaks to the viewer on a personal, moral and almost existential level.
Left, Right, Good, Bad, Right, Wrong, Innocent, Guilty The story of Swipe unfolds in the space between these binaries.A space marked by the confusion and chaos that these seemingly discrete terms engender.And the lack of integrity they hold in a justice system that has been erected on dishonesty, erasure and pretense.The protagonist oscillates rapidly between these binaries, leaving behind a trail we must follow, a trail descending into the heart of the film to reveal its silent centre……a solemn request to look around and look within and question oneself.We are taken there gradually, carefully, with a gentleness and curiosity that forms the basis of honest storytelling.And this, we discover, is the real task of the film – to speak with conviction but not without fear… …to raise one’s trembling fist against injustice.Because to be afraid is to be human, and in a society where honesty is difficult, harrowing work, one needs to hold on to one’s humanity.Perhaps this is why Swipe is so haunting; it is deeply personal. Our gaze is able to penetrate the screen and see the faces telling the story. Reflected in them are our own… …and we leave with a quiet and heavy heart, but a heart that strives to do good.
