Over its 16 minute runtime, Genius Loci packs more ideas and innovation than the majority of feature-length films.
Like any excellent art, it cannot possible be fully understood with a single viewing. Every time I watch it I see heaps of new things I didn't notice on previous viewings, including the narrative.
The animation style is deeply informed by early 20th century modern painting, constantly imaginative, and breathtaking. The sound design is refreshing and a departure from the traditional (and more agreeable) orchestral accompaniment.
Rarely do people have the imagination required to create a work like this, let alone pull it off. It is so sophisticated and original that it makes the majority of short-films look tepid and rudimentary in comparison. I cannot wait to see what Mérigeau makes next.