“Witch of Deadwood” is an animated short film very much in the tradition of Bakshi and fantasy works from Tolkien, where it’s easily accessible to all ages. “Witch of Deadwood” is a peak in to a very dangerous and complex world that is brought to life with rich animation by Raymond Kosta, along with wonderful direction by Larry Longstreth. Short but sweet, “Witch of Deadwood” is set on a family of dwarves traveling through a harrowing wooded area.
Much to their horror, they’re stalked by an evil witch who proceeds to murder the mother and father, and kidnap the child. Victorious, the witch isn’t just content with kidnapping the child, as she toys with the poor being and uses him as a toy before slowly walking him to a pot prepared to be boiled and eaten. With wonderful animation and excellent backgrounds by Owen Carson, “Witch of Deadwood” brings this vivid world to life.
It’s a land filled with inherent dangers but also a small bout of hope brought to life by families willing to sacrifice for one another in times of great peril. The Witch of Deadwood is a disgusting and grotesque monster who delights in doling out pain, while the dwarves are fascinating inadvertent heroes who seek to dodge whatever dangers lurk in the darkness and make it home. I really hope we can see more of these characters and this land soon, as “Witch of Deadwood” feels like a small segment in a wider scope epic tale that’s begging to be told. I intend to watch with great interest.