A Much Better Illusion

This arresting new film from Forever’s newly signed director Chloe Sheppard, takes a languid, lyrical look at themes of isolation and adolescence, while hinting at questions about beauty and the male/female gaze.

The quirky, sensual film has a deliciously vintage feel and, without any particular narrative thread, follows 17-year-old model and Instagram sensation Sylvie Makower as she wafts around weeping willows, cut-flower arrangements and retro telephones; and in and out of lakes, bathtubs and the sea being winsome and gorgeous.

At first viewing, one might accuse the subject of a spot of narcissism – the camera loves her, she loves the camera... and herself – but look closer and there are hints that representations of womanhood are being explored – something close to the hearts of both Makower and Shepphard.

A multidisciplinary artist, director and photographer, Sheppard, at the tender age of 22, has already clocked up such clients as Chloe, Beats 1, Miss Selfridge, Polaroid, ASOS and adidas, and her work has been featured in Vogue, Dazed, i-D, Nowness, Hunger and more. Plus, she has an astounding 42,000 followers on Instagram.

For more on Sheppard's world view, check out our Q&A with the director later today.