Secret Level: An Anthology Based on…

Exploring ‘Secret Level’: Where Animation Meets Gaming

Tim Miller and Dave Wilson, the creative forces behind Blur Studios, return with another ambitious project. Known for their earlier work on "Love, Death, and Robots," these visionaries have crafted "Secret Level," an anthology animated series. But this time, they’ve set their sights on video game properties.

A Fresh Dynamic: Animation vs. Gaming

"Secret Level" presents a unique challenge: bridging the gap between passive and active entertainment. Watching breathtaking animation differs from controlling a game. Yet, the series aims to captivate with its craft, even if it leaves some yearning to grab a controller. The anthology kicks off with a homage to Dungeon & Dragons’ 50th anniversary, ending with a nod to the Sony PlayStation’s 30th. This animated journey includes classics like Pac-Man and Mega Man, as well as new stars like Sifu and Spelunky.

Eye-Catching Varied Realizations

Each short bursts with vivid detail, leaning toward realism and drama. There’s a smattering of humor, but science fiction and fantasy dominate the landscape. The variety ensures there’s something for everyone, even if the games don’t pique your personal interest. "Honor of Kings," for instance, became a surprise favorite, despite my lack of interest in the game itself.

Celebrity voices add an extra layer to the experience, particularly in the "Armored Core" short. Yet, for some, these shorts might feel like elaborate advertising cinematics. With video games already pushing the envelope of animated visuals, it’s not a stretch to see these as extensions of that marketing approach. The PlayStation-themed ending short underscores this, straddling the line between art and commerce.

Highlights and Hidden Gems

Secret Level does shine in places, offering standout shorts like "Sifu," with its dynamic portrayal of martial arts and a unique aging mechanism. The fight direction and choreography are spot-on, capturing the essence of the game. "Unreal Tournament" begs for further exploration as a series, and "Crossfire" delivers nail-biting action reminiscent of a live-action thriller. The "Dungeons & Dragons" short brilliantly captures the spirit of its tabletop roots, serving as a fitting inauguration for the series.

The Concord short deserves a nod too. It piqued curiosity about the game, which unfortunately met a swift demise shortly after its launch. This short film could potentially have changed its fate, spearing interest in what Concord had to offer.

Final Thoughts: Awaiting the Next Level

Overall, "Secret Level" intrigues as a celebration of gaming through a different lens. It would be exciting to see another season, offering fresh interpretations of the gaming world. Whether it’s beloved classics or uncharted territory, "Secret Level" stands as a testament to the evolving art of animation and gaming.