This Sunday, September 1, the Centro Cultural del Sur will be the setting for the premiere of the animated short film “The Days Are Getting Shorter,” a work directed by David Igneas and produced by Axel Orozco, which seeks to raise awareness about the importance of care of animals and elderly people.
The animation, made in a single fixed shot, narrates the daily life of a cat who depends on the company and care of his grandmother. However, when Granny disappears, the cat and a mouse tenant must face loneliness and uncertainty.
“It is a reflection on human connection and the inevitability of change,” says David Igneas, who conceived the story inspired by his family and the bond between humans and pets.
“We wanted to capture that nostalgia of the moments shared with grandparents, listening to boleros or troves on the radio, and the importance of love and care for our pets,” he said.
The production involved 12 people, including illustrators, animators, and musicians, who brought this piece to life with a minimalist but profound narrative.
Axel Orozco, the producer of the short film, highlighted the participation of the Trío Armónico, a group of young musicians who created a Yucatecan trova piece that accompanies the animation, adding an emotional layer without the need for dialogue or sound effects.
Igneas and Orozco expressed that the theme of the short film responds to a concern about the culture of care, which sometimes seems to fade.
“In Yucatán, there is a lot of violence against animals, and we believe that it is necessary to raise awareness about the responsibility towards them, as well as towards our older adults,” Igneas mentioned.
The short film for the entire family. Although its creators hope it will especially resonate with those with responsibilities towards their parents, pets, or children.
“We want this piece to generate a reflection on what happens when an animal is left alone or when an elderly person can no longer be cared for at home,” added Axel Orozco.
Both filmmakers are part of the growing independent film community in Mérida. The project was possible thanks to the support of the “Young Creators” fund of the Mérida City Council, which allowed them to take the production to a more professional level. “This type of support is essential for independent cinema in Yucatán to continue growing,” said Orozco.
In addition to its Sunday screening at the Centro Cultural del Sur, “The Days Are Getting Shorter” will have a special presentation at the Manuel Barbachano Cineteca of the Armando Manzanero Theater, organized by the Nuevo Cine Yucateco, which is an independent cultural management that promotes local short films.
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