Montreal filmmaker Alison McAlpine found inspiration for her new documentary while at the remote La Silla Observatory near the Chilean Atacama Desert. The Oscar-nominated short film, “Perfectly a Strangeness,” was born from the surreal experience of witnessing the observatory come to life under the starry night sky.
McAlpine vividly describes the observatory as a place that feels abandoned yet alive, where metallic domes seemed to dance and chase the stars as the night unfolded. The unexpected encounter with a herd of donkeys further fueled her creativity, leading to a unique exploration of how these animals perceive the universe.
In “Perfectly a Strangeness,” viewers are taken on a 15-minute experimental journey where three donkeys stumble upon the deserted observatory, opening their eyes to the vast cosmos. The film, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, is now available on Crave for audiences to experience its blend of mystery and wonder.
McAlpine, known for her previous work in the Atacama Desert with the film “Cielo,” expressed her surprise and gratitude for the Oscar nomination, joining other talented Canadian filmmakers recognized for their exceptional contributions to cinema.
Keyphrase: Canadian filmmakers Oscar nominations
