In the shadowed alleys of Prague, Meow! takes audiences on a peculiar, visually arresting journey that blends silent-era charm with an offbeat sense of humor. Directed by Michal Vojtech and Ariel de la Garza Davidoff, this short film is an experimental and eerie adventure through obsession, longing, and the absurd.
The story follows Anna Maria (Paige Janey Thomas), a devoted toilet attendant, as she embarks on a desperate search for her missing cat, Meow. Along the way, she encounters a gang of bizarre hunchbacks (all portrayed by Raphael Ruiz) who seem more interested in her than in helping her find her pet. Through a series of bizarre events—ranging from foot photography exchanges to a surreal shadow play—Anna Maria navigates an unsettling world where possessions vanish, cryptic messages appear, and Meow’s absence takes on an almost existential weight. The final revelation that the cat may have left of its own accord rather than being stolen adds an unexpected layer of melancholy to the narrative.
Filmed in Prague on 16mm, the film’s visuals are a definite highlight. The Gothic architecture, dimly lit corridors, and cobblestone streets evoke a dreamlike quality, making the setting feel both inviting and alien. Filip Kettner’s cinematography does an excellent job of capturing the haunting beauty of the city, enhancing the film’s surreal atmosphere. Likewise, Nils Sandgren’s score adds to the film’s whimsical yet unsettling tone, punctuated by oddball sound design from Pablo Cervera and Alex Gordon that heightens the off-kilter nature of the world Anna Maria inhabits.
The film’s commitment to silent-era mime techniques is commendable, successfully evoking the works of early cinematic pioneers while injecting modern absurdity into the mix. The lack of dialogue forces the performances—especially Thomas’ expressive reactions—to carry the story, and for the most part, it works. There are moments of genuine amusement, such as the gleeful hunchback making a getaway down the river, as well as scenes of subtle horror, like the ominous shadow play revealing the hunchbacks’ true intentions.
Despite its strengths, Meow! doesn’t quite deliver a deeper thematic punch. It presents itself as something more profound than it ultimately is, operating more as an homage than an original statement. While its aesthetic choices and dedication to silent storytelling are admirable, the emotional core feels slightly hollow. The idea of longing—whether for a pet or human connection—is present but not fully explored. That said, the film is undeniably entertaining, beautifully shot, and offers a unique, if somewhat detached, cinematic experience.
Overall, Meow! is an intriguing, visually impressive short that revels in its absurdity while paying tribute to classic silent cinema. It may not resonate deeply with all viewers, but for those who appreciate surreal humor and atmospheric storytelling, it’s a charming, quirky experience worth watching.
Jessie Hobson