Why am I not happy? Short film Happiness

We could not fail to share on the platform a short film like Steve Cutts’ Happines.

Animation has proven to be a powerful tool not only to entertain, but also to reflect on modern society. One of the most outstanding exponents of this art is Steve Cutts, and his animated short “Happiness” stands out as one of his masterpieces. In this article, we will delve into the analysis of this powerful short film and its critique of contemporary society.

The Endless Race to Happiness

From the first seconds of “Happiness,” Steve Cutts sets a somber but humorous tone. The title suggests a journey to happiness, but what we see is a mass of rats – a clear metaphor for humanity – running in an unbridled and endless race to achieve happiness in the form of material goods.

Consumerism as False Happiness

One of the most obvious criticisms of the short film is of consumerism. Rats strive to obtain products that, according to advertising, promise them happiness. From TVs, phones, cars to fast food, they all promise the bliss these rats (or humans) crave, but in the end, they only result in more desire and less satisfaction.

The Comparison Society

The short film also addresses the constant need for comparison in modern society. Rats not only want more, they want more than their neighbors. This endless competition leads to a cycle of discontent and anxiety, showing that happiness is not found in the accumulation of goods, but in other aspects of life that we often overlook.

Nature vs. The City

“Happiness” also presents a strong contrast between nature and urbanization. While rats run frantically in the city, nature appears calm and serene, suggesting that perhaps true happiness lies far from the consumerist madness of modern society.

The Human Being: A Rat in the Race for Consumption?

As we move forward in the analysis of “Happiness”, it is inevitable to consider a deeper reflection on the life of the modern human being. The comparison between rats and humans is not accidental. Rats, in their behavior in controlled environments, show a tendency to follow certain rewards even when these do not bring them any real value. Similarly, human beings, in their quest for fulfillment, blindly pursue money and material goods, often at the expense of their well-being and mental health.

Money: A Tool or an End?

Historically, money was conceived as a tool, a means to exchange goods and services. However, in the “Happiness” narrative, and certainly in many aspects of contemporary society, money has gone from being a tool to becoming a goal in itself. Instead of pursuing experiences, relationships and personal growth, there is an overwhelming emphasis on accumulating wealth, often without a clear purpose for what that wealth can provide in terms of a fulfilling life.

The Illusion of Material Plenitude

Persistent advertising and pop culture have conditioned us to believe that certain products will make us happier, more attractive or more successful. However, as shown in the short film, once the desired object is obtained, the euphoria is short-lived. Quickly, attention is diverted to the next shiny object, leaving a void that cannot be filled by material goods.

The Price of Materialistic Obsession

This obsession with possession and accumulation comes at a price. In addition to the obvious problems of indebtedness and financial stress, there is an emotional and psychological cost. Constant comparison, envy and dissatisfaction generate anxiety, depression and a general feeling of emptiness. Human beings, living their lives like rats on the wheel of consumerism, often miss out on more enriching and meaningful experiences.

Towards a New Definition of Wealth

Perhaps it is time we reconsider our definition of wealth. Instead of measuring it in terms of money and possessions, we could start valuing it in terms of relationships, experiences and personal growth. After all, the most memorable and rewarding moments rarely come with a price tag.

Awakening Consciousness: The Key to Emerge from the Labyrinth

The perception of living life as a rat trapped in a labyrinth of consumption and competition is, fortunately, not a fixed destiny. It is possible to find a way out, and that way out lies in the awakening of consciousness. Through self-knowledge, introspection and a redefinition of our values, we can break the chains of unbridled consumerism and find a deeper purpose in life.

Mindfulness and Mindfulness

The concept of mindfulness has gained popularity in recent years and with good reason. By focusing on the present, on the here and now, we can free ourselves from the constant need for more. By being fully present in our actions and decisions, we realize that we do not need so many things to feel complete or happy.

Redefining Success

Another vital step to stop feeling like rats in a race is to redefine what we consider success. Instead of measuring it in terms of possessions or status, we can measure it in terms of personal satisfaction, growth and contribution to the well-being of others. True fulfillment is not found in what we have, but in who we are and how we relate to the world.

Connection with Nature

As “Happiness” highlights, there is a contrast between the hustle and bustle of urban life and the serenity of nature. Reconnecting with the environment, whether through walks in the park, hiking or simply taking a moment to appreciate the beauty around us, can be an effective way to remind us of what really matters.

Steve Cutts’ short film “Happiness” is a mirror that reflects modern life and its pitfalls. However, beyond the criticism, there is a message of hope. By awakening our consciousness, actively questioning what we truly value and taking steps to live in accordance with those values, we can find true happiness. Not as a product to be bought, but as an experience to be lived. It’s time to stop being a rat in the maze of consumerism and embrace a life of purpose, meaning and connection.

It is not just a commentary on consumerism, but a call for introspection. Are we living our lives in an endless cycle of desire and consumption, or are we searching for purpose and meaning beyond the material? As a society and as individuals, it is worth asking this question, and perhaps, like the rats in the short film, finding a way out of the frantic race toward dissatisfaction.

This short film is not only an artistic piece, but also a profound social critique. It makes us reflect on the relentless pursuit of happiness in a society dominated by consumerism and comparison. In a world where we often measure ourselves by what we own rather than who we are, “Happiness” serves as a reminder that true happiness could be right in front of us, if only we would stop and look.

Wake up

Wake up!