Nexus
Nexus is a story about empathy. What does it mean and how can we be empathetic considering our unique perception of the world? What should we do if we can’t see things from another person’s perspective? In the film, we follow the struggles of two characters trying to understand each other. Yet, the story uncovers a surprisingly simple answer that can sometimes be hard for people to embrace.
In this animated film, abstract visuals come into play: the characters’ worldviews are represented by see-through helmets, which are an integral part of the characters’ body. These helmets act as a barrier, preventing true understanding and leaving the characters trapped in their own separate realities.
Additionally, the film delves into the realm of existential philosophy, emphasizing that the world itself does not exist without our perception. Outside the confinement of the helmet, the environment is filled with abstract objects that move in a random manner.
Character design
Character 1 has a helmet with foggy lenses, he suffers from traumatic experiences, that cloud his perception of reality. The helmet grows is size and becomes darker inside.
Character 2 is in a stable emotional state in the particular moment. His helmet has a soft, streamlined shape. He moves softly and smoothly. He is relaxed and calm, enjoying small pleasures. The world is a safe and stable place for him.
Visual development
Visual development of the view from the dark helmet
Distortion analysis
Background design
In the animated film, “Nexus,” the audience experiences the narrative through three distinct prisms or lenses: the dark helmet (representing the first character’s perspective), the light helmet (rep- resenting the second character’s perspective), and the external viewpoint, where we observe the characters devoid of any specific perspective.
