Goat Date

 

Goat Date (April 2025), Silent Film, 1:11 minutes

The film focuses on the sexual tension between the monster and the female victim in horror films. It follows a ‘first date’ set up where the ‘victim’ rejects the monster, or in this case a goat. I chose to use a goat, rather than a stereotype of a vampire or even a witch, due to its link to the devil and witchcraft. 



Initial Inspiration for film

I chose to continue with my theme of silent films for several reasons. Firstly, I think it important for the visuals to tell the story, rather than the dialogue. Secondly, the history of women in silent film reflects my idea for the storyline. In a lot of silent films, such as Nosferatu (1922), stroylines follow the ‘victimisation of the heroine.’ Women were often placed in a position of danger, being victims of aggression and torture, exemplifying the ‘female defenselessness and weakness.’ [1] However, in this film, the heroine isn’t the victim or in awe of the monster, but is capable of rejection.




The Goat Mask

Finished Goat Mask
I was inspired by Liz Sexton, who makes paper mache animal masks. I wanted the mask to have a bit of a ‘homemade’ feel to it, so it looked like someone pretending to be a goat, rather than the animal itself. This links to the stigma surrounding goats and the devil and the fact that it wasn’t the actual animal that was scary, but rather the rumours and folklore surrounding it.



Goat Studies and Sketches

To make the mask, I started to construct the head shape with tin foil and masking tape. I then used clay and modrock to add texture and finer details. I finished by using acrylic paint and black wool. These materials were all ones that I already owned, so I did not have to waste money or resources, making the piece sustainable.


Inspo for the goat mask 




Goat Mask Progression


[1] Abel, R. (1999). Silent film. London: Athlone Press.