The Stick
Special | 3m 48sVideo has Closed Captions
A boy grows up in fear of a boomerang that never came back in this animated classic.
While playing with his friends, young Henry threw a boomerang that never came back. Now a grown man, he spends his life in fear of its inevitable return. In desperation, he seeks out professional help in this animated short film. A film by Renua Giwa-Amu.
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
Film School Shorts is made possible by a grant from Maurice Kanbar, celebrating the vitality and power of the moving image, and by the members of KQED.
The Stick
Special | 3m 48sVideo has Closed Captions
While playing with his friends, young Henry threw a boomerang that never came back. Now a grown man, he spends his life in fear of its inevitable return. In desperation, he seeks out professional help in this animated short film. A film by Renua Giwa-Amu.
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
Where to Watch Film School Shorts
Film School Shorts is available to stream on pbs.org and the PBS app.
Providing Support for PBS.org
Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorshipPart of These Collections
Women Directors
Get a first look at the women directors creating the future of cinema.
View Collection
Providing Support for PBS.org
Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorship(neon sign buzzing) (clock ticking) (therapist clears throat) - So, tell me about this boomerang.
- When I was a kid, growing up in Nigeria, I was happy.
I had friends.
One day, we were just playing with this boomerang.
We weren't doing anything wrong.
I took it on.
I thought it would be fun.
What a fool.
I threw the boomerang, and it never came back.
I waited, and I waited out there, but it just never came back.
(suspenseful music) - Hmm.
And you think this boomerang is coming for you.
- I know it is.
It's out there.
Circling the skies.
Watching me.
Waiting to strike.
(cat meows) Sometimes, I think I see it in the corner of my eye in the windows.
I watch my back.
Always.
I can never be too careful.
I spend every night waiting for it to get here.
But any time I even see something that even looks like it's flying towards me, I take off running.
I'm just...
I'm losing it.
So I've just got a question for you, Doctor.
What do you call a boomerang that doesn't come back?
A stick, a stick!
It's ruining my life!
- You need to face your fear.
You can't hide anymore.
Take off the helmet.
- Help me.
Ow.
- Ah-ha.
- Ah.
The boomerang, it hit me!
- Yes, yes, it's all over.
- I'm free!
(peaceful music) (glass shatters) (upbeat, funky music) - [Announcer] Film school shorts is made possible by a grant from Maurice Kanbar.
Celebrating the vitality and power of the moving image.
(upbeat, funky music) (bright music)
Support for PBS provided by:
Film School Shorts is made possible by a grant from Maurice Kanbar, celebrating the vitality and power of the moving image, and by the members of KQED.