Quick Fix

Plastic pollution is a big problem. Most of us realise this, but for some people, the death of ocean ecosystems on which we all depend for food and oxygen is not a big deal compared with the horror of having to compromise on convenience. Perhaps there’s no point in trying to reason with them about all that. We might, instead, ask if they have ever considered what a culture of convenience feels like to the objects they throw away.

A simple but powerful little animated film screening at Fantasia 2021, Quick Fix tells the story of a coffee cup who is just thrilled to have been purchased by a woman who carries him into her office, where he sits gazing up at her as she works, every now and again experiencing the pleasure of pressing his lips against hers. It feels like true love, but then she picks up her things and leaves. He watches the clock. Has something happened to her? Has she abandoned him? Any relief that he might feel on her return the next morning is overshadowed by the heartbreak of what happens next.

A great vocal performance by Daniel Amerman – sans words but full of emotion – combines with deftly rendered animation to give the humble cup lots of personality. It’s not all big brown eyes and cutesiness – frustration, confusion, despondency and anger are there too, so that the film doesn’t just rely on us feeling sympathy but also invites empathy. Director Alexandra Lemay’s evocative use of static objects is also impressive. The result is a compelling piece of messaging which demonstrates real craft and skill and stands as an appealing piece of storytelling in its own right.