It is amazing the things one stumbles upon while in the depths of a procrastination binge. Caldera is a visually stunning 3D animation created by Evan Viera, Chris Bishop, and a host of students and professionals that donated their time. The project was produced under the Bit Films program at Hampshire College, Amherst. While dark and dealing with tough subject matter, Caldera is beautifully realised, touching and thought provoking. There are also some serene moments that soften the impact, while making the experience all the more compelling.

The film was 4 years in the making and is inspired by Viera’s father’s experiences with schizoaffective disorder. It depicts a young woman who decides to go off her medication and flee a threatening and oppressive city. The film doesn’t attempt to push a particular perspective on us, but instead poses questions for the viewer to consider.

Caldera has been to many film festivals and picked up numerous awards. Bit Films is currently working on a number of projects including Tube, a 3D short animation that seems to be in the latter stages of production. Bit Films is currently taking on interns for Spring 2014.