J.R.R. Tolkien’s short story Leaf by Niggle is one of my favourite of his works. Written in 1938-39, and first published in the Dublin Review in January 1945, the piece is often considered an allegory of Tolkien’s own creative process (respected Tolkien scholar Tom Shippey argues in his book The Author of the Century that it functions as an autobiographical allegory).
Adam Dens and his friends have adapted this work into a short, 17-minute film. There are some sound issues here and there, but it’s worth a watch in my opinion. Go check it out. Adam writes:
My friends and I have made a non-profit short film based on Tolkien’s Leaf by Niggle. It was a new challenge, both in adaptation and the usage of miniatures, and while it did not come together as I expected, we are very proud of the result, and the work we put into it.
Tree & Leaf tells the story of a painter, who fails to put the images in his head on canvas. A short film about creative work, and the fear of never finishing it.
