Web Series Wednesday – Vessel 87

By: Spring Marie Cullen

WHAT? Vessel 87

BY: Hondo Weiss-Richmond and Nick Weiss-Richmond

WHY SHOULD I WATCH?

Vessel 87 is a brand-new short form web series with a very unique twist. Set on a cargo ship currently at sea, the story is told entirely through shadow puppets. Creators Nick and Hondo Weiss-Richmond started experimenting with puppetry techniques and realized, despite its challenges, that the medium presented opportunities to tell a fun, creative story using a diverse international cast.

The story follows the crew of Vessel 87 through the tedious routine of life on the ship. Long hours, mechanical failures and clashing personalities are magnified in close quarters as they can’t avoid each other, their responsibilities or have a moment of time to themselves. The eleven-episode series dives into the monotony of life at sea in short two to three minute bursts, making each episode feel like a quick skit.

The writing is smart and snappy and it really feels like a truthful portrayal of life on a ship. From little nuanced annoyances from shipmates to frustrations when electrical malfunctions pop up, the crew’s struggle is realistic and humorous. It’s more of a dry humor, but the commentary on the issues at hand make it enjoyable.

Of course, the real stand out of the series is format. The use of shadow puppets truly brings the series to the next level, elevating it in a way not many web series creators have even attempted. Vessel 87 brings out the aspect of web series making I love the most; seeing a quirky story told in a one-of-a-kind way. Hondo and Nick set out to create something new and original and they succeeded. I look forward to what they do next and hope more creators follow their lead and try their hand at different mediums.

WHERE CAN I WATCH? Episodes are available on YouTube.

Follow on Social Media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/vessel87series

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vessel87series/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vessel87series/

Website: https://www.vessel87.com/