Through the Looking Glasses

"Through the Looking Glasses" is a 2D animated short film telling the coming-of-age story of a tweenager’s search for the perfect pair of glasses.

​Mel, a nearsighted and headstrong tweenager, is shopping for glasses for the first time with the support of her mom. However, Mom must step away to take an important phone call, leaving Mel daunted by the task at hand. Influenced by the poster ads lining the shop walls, Mel tries on several frames which transport her to different fantasies related to each individual frame – a fashionista walking the streets of Paris, a sculpture artist creating her masterpiece, an airplane pilot, and many more. Each scenario is ruined by her insecurities manifested as her alter-ego, Melicious. Will Mel be able to overcome Melicious and find the right pair of glasses for her?

Website: https://tlgthefilm.wixsite.com/home

About “Through the Looking Glasses”

“Through the Looking Glasses” is a story inspired by my personal glasses wearing journey; specifically as a tweenager. The characters and their designs are heavily influenced by myself at twelve years old and my mom. “Through the Looking Glasses” was an idea born from a mundane trip to the ophthalmologist. While waiting to see the doctor, I browsed the frames on display. Seeing the various designs collectively reminded me of the times I would try on frames “for fun.”

Growing up, I never felt confident wearing glasses and was insecure with my appearance. But, I needed to wear glasses if I wanted to see clearly. So, I would try on flamboyant, extravagant, and unique frames in search of the perfect pair. Each frame represented a different personality to me (i.e. librarian, nerd, Parisian fashionista). It wasn’t until recently that I found my perfect pair that helped me find confidence in my appearance with glasses.

I hope “Through the Looking Glasses” inspires others to find acceptance, courage and perseverance in their own journey of self discovery. The message of “Through the Looking Glasses” is to let others know that they are not alone in the climb to overcoming their insecurities and finding themself.

- Morgan L. Eng, Director