Senior communications student creates his own version
by Marlena Chertock, April 13, 2010
Waldo has been found. He is a quirky, fun-loving guy who rides around on a bike. He is a Francophile and enjoys quoting famous writers.
Sound anything like the “Where’s Waldo” books? Elon University seniors Max Cantor and Eddie Schmit have created their own version of the Waldo character in “Waldo and the Absolutely Amazing Afternoon.” The short film was shown April 7 in the McEwen screening room.
The film took an interesting angle on the Waldo character. Waldo (played by sophomore Grant Gustin) came to visit his sister, Victoria Waldorf (played by sophomore Kathryn Borders) and her boyfriend Daniel (played by senior Christopher Wood).
Despite its short length, the film offered an entrance into Waldo’s mind. He seemed to be searching for home, for identity, for a sense of belonging, while also being a loveable goof.
Daniel was not taken with Waldo. He seemed annoyed at Waldo’s playfulness and somewhat haughty attitude.
In one scene, Waldo began folding a piece of paper while sitting outside with Daniel. When he finished folding he places his origami creation on Daniel’s shoulder. “Le éléphant,” he said while Daniel stared blankly.
After Waldo quoted Ralph Waldo Emerson he made sure to clear up confusion with humor. “His words, not mine,” Waldo said. “I wish.” Daniel quickly added that he knew as well, seemingly frustrated that Waldo didn’t take him seriously.
Humor was laced throughout the film. Cantor added comical moments without making the film a comedy. When Daniel pulled out the book “Lost in the Crowd” and asked Waldo to sign it, the audience laughed together. Waldo was signing his memoirs.
Junior Jordan Mericle summed up the film when she called it “original.”
Many of the camera shots showed the characters in silhouette with the sun shining through the window behind them. Sometimes the camera would be situated underneath the characters, giving them a more powerful feel.
“It was visually stunning,” junior Maddie Franke said.
Another more visually diverse moment in the film was when Waldo played a solemn song on the piano, in an unlit room, with a cigarette dangling out of his mouth. The car lights passing by were reflected in the window, red and white, just like his infamous shirt. His song on the piano evoked feelings of longing and sadness. He seemed to be lonely and searching for home.
The film was entertaining, with humor and innovative camera shots. Audience members laughed throughout the entire eight minutes.
At the end of the film, some audience members exclaimed, “That’s it?” The audience wanted more of Waldo, of the relationship between his sister and him, of his travels and his quirky, lovable character.
Hopefully, they will see more, as Cantor and Schmit seem to have struck gold in their portrayal of the familiar Waldo.