Why the Anderson Children Didn't Come to Dinner (2003)

This was Jamie Travis's first film: the first in what was to become his "Saddest Children in the World" trilogy. And though he probably wouldn't be happy to hear me say this, it's by far my favourite of the three.

Food, that most basic of provisions, provokes such intense feelings in children, which can make mealtimes the best of times or the most traumatic of ordeals. One's inner child still feels that and this gem of a short taps that anxiety with an astute flourish bordering on cruelty.

Surreal, comedic, disturbing and stomach churning it has to be seen rather than described. It's a superb piece of weirdness and far too darn good to have been a directorial début.

Luckily, Travis has shared it (along with the other two, "The Saddest Boy in the World" and "The Armoire") on his Vimeo channel. He suggests watching this one last. I saw it first (before the others were made) but I imagine it would make a tasty dessert.

Not for the lilly-livered, but clearly the work of a genius. I look forward to so much more from this man.