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Clip description
Term has just ended at Rimside High School and students stream through the school gates. Last out is Beau. He’s melancholy at the thought of the lonely holiday ahead – that is, until he catches sight of Bec, the bike of his dreams, walking her pet skateboard past the school. Not far behind, though, is Bec’s ex, Harley, who has brought her flowers hoping to win her back.
Curator’s notes
This early sequence quickly sets up Love Tricycle’s story. It is immediately recognisable as an archetypal, boy-meets-girl-but-must-contend-with-jealous-rival romantic narrative.
Several devices allow us to relate to the bicycles as we might human characters. Music imparts emotion. Character design makes Bec and Beau appear a match, with their old-school city bike and beach cruiser designs, while Harley the dirt bike looks mean. His meanness is enhanced by the use of a shot from below in which he momentarily towers over the camera.
Meanwhile, classic edits like point of view and over-the-shoulder shots give all three bikes human qualities. The environment plays a part too, as the gate opens and closes on Beau, who is apparently too gobsmacked to notice.
