Saucy Sonnets and Animal Voices

Inspired by Shakespeare's Winter's Tale. What would you say, if you only ever got to play the bear? Part of an original sonnet trilogy discussing the nature of animal characters within Shakespeare's plays, their flaws, and how a feminine Gaze alters their narrative. Actors playing the parts of A Midsummer Night Dream's 'Lion', Two Gentlemen of Verona's 'Dog' and Winters Tale's 'Bear', take their seats in a confessional where they share their experiences with Willamina; a queer reimagining of Shakespeare who sits the other side of the gauze adorned with nipple tassles and elaborate ruff. Shown in three chapters, each chapter includes talking heads style investigations of the vibrant cartoon like characters, the presentation of their personal sonnet, and flash back sequences In anachronistic low brow locations.

Directed by Chloe Doherty, Saucy Sonnets and Animal Voices leans on a strong ensemble — Andrea Valls, Jake Lampert, Katherine Moran — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 0.