Alistair Nicholls Releases Self-Funded Claymation Short 'Running Late' This November

Alistair Nicholls has completed 'Running Late', a self-funded claymation short film set for release in November. The film depicts a surreal morning routine featuring a red alarm clock with stubby legs, inspired by Czech surrealist animator Jan Švankmajer, and a crocodile that dispenses toothpaste, a character born from a casual doodle. Nicholls created the project between paid commissions over a year, with zero budget, animating scenes in the real world to avoid building sets. He describes the process as improvisational, giving the film a dreamy, strange feeling. Since 2022, Nicholls has produced campaigns for Coachella and Renault and giant claymation characters for a Charlie Puth music video. He says finding time and funding for personal work was tough, noting, 'It's strange as it's almost like I was asking permission to make something.' He wanted to make something entirely his own, not with a client or brand. Building characters was intuitive; he compares animating to acting through the character one frame at a time. After a year of production, 'Running Late' is due this November. Nicholls hopes to show that you can make something for yourself without asking permission. The film is playful and dreamy with a faded, nostalgic feel, an atmosphere born from constraints. More information at alistairnichollsanimation.com.