Eye of the Beholder

In a world where dreams and reality intertwine, a wandering spirit named Sage embarks on a mysterious and perilous journey to become an angel. Driven by a deep desire to earn his halo and golden wings, Sage ventures into the unknown, accompanied by his enigmatic companion, Mercury. His quest centers on obtaining a heart, the key to his transformation, but the path is far from simple.

The film unfolds in haunting landscapes—snowy caverns, ethereal forests, and otherworldly realms—each holding fragments of the truth Sage seeks. Along the way, he encounters strange beings and confronts powerful forces that seek to hinder his progress. At the heart of this journey lies a bargain, a camera, and a choice, all of which lead Sage deeper into the mysteries of his existence.

The Heart of the Dreamworld is an allegorical exploration of desire, transformation, and the unseen forces shaping our paths. Sage’s journey is not just one of physical battles but a spiritual quest for redemption, purpose, and the essence of what it means to ascend. The film leaves viewers contemplating the blurred lines between the worlds we know and the unseen realms we only glimpse in dreams.

  • Alexander Jarvis
    Director
  • Alexander Jarvis
    Writer
  • Alexander Jarvis
    Producer
  • Alexander Jarvis
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Animation, Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    5 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    June 20, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    437 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Alexander Jarvis

Alexander Jarvis, a Connecticut native and current senior at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), is a multi-disciplinary director with a deep focus on environmental storytelling. His documentary Water Wars: Rainpowered delves into his family’s decade-long struggle to legalize rainwater harvesting in Virginia, capturing both the legislative and personal battles they faced. Beyond documentaries, Alexander has directed several 3D animated films that explore complex themes using cutting-edge technology. His experience also extends into live broadcast production, having directed live sports broadcasts for ESPN+, showcasing his versatility across various media platforms. Through his work, Alexander aims to merge creative expression with social impact, particularly in environmental advocacy.

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Director Statement

As a director, I focus on storytelling that merges the personal with the political. My documentary Water Wars: Rainpowered captures my family’s fight to legalize rainwater harvesting in Virginia, showcasing the intersection of environmental advocacy and media's power to shape public policy.

Whether through documentaries or 3D animation, my goal is to raise awareness of critical issues like sustainability and social justice. I believe in the ability of visual media to inspire change and challenge perceptions. Through my work—including directing live broadcasts for ESPN+—I aim to engage audiences deeply, sparking conversations that lead to lasting impact.