In the ever-evolving canvas of animated shorts, the 2024 Oscar race promises a vibrant palette of storytelling, where diverse narratives from around the globe converge to captivate audiences. The shortlist, led by Disney’s enchanting “Once Upon a Studio,” showcases the artistry and emotional depth embedded in the world of animation.
“Once Upon a Studio” Takes Center Stage
“Once Upon a Studio,” Disney’s 100th-anniversary tribute, emerges as a cause for celebration. A hybrid marvel, this animated short seamlessly integrates 2D animation, bringing to life 543 characters in a lively crossover from Dan Abraham and Trent Correy. These characters, animated from photographs in the live-action Roy E. Disney Animation building, create a visual spectacle that promises to leave a lasting impression.
Exploring Identity and Acceptance: “Pete” and “War Is Over!”
In the heart of the competition, two indie gems carve their niche. “Pete,” directed by Bret Parker, delves into the struggles of gender identity as it follows Pete Barma, who defied societal norms by playing Little League baseball while identifying as a boy. On a different note, “War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko,” directed by Dave Mullins, uses the backdrop of a chess game played across enemy lines, courtesy of a heroic carrier pigeon. This Pixar alumnus explores the powerful themes within John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s protest song, “Happy Xmas (War Is Over).”
Jazz, Nostalgia, and Celebration: “I’m Hip”
Retired Disney feature director John Musker presents “I’m Hip,” a jazzy song and dance celebration that marks his return to animation after 40 years. Set against the backdrop of the ’50s and ’60s, this short unfolds as a breathless ode to jazz, an era, and Disney animation itself. With 120 caricatures, including industry luminaries like Ron Clements and Brad Bird, “I’m Hip” promises a nostalgic trip with a feline protagonist proclaiming its hipness.
Global Perspectives: Shorts that Resonate
The international shortlist introduces poignant narratives, from the heartwarming “Boom” (France) depicting birds protecting their eggs amid a volcanic eruption to the emotionally charged “Eeva” (Estonia, Croatia) exploring coping mechanisms in the face of loss. “Humo (Smoke)” (Mexico) confronts the Holocaust through the eyes of a young boy on a train journey to an ominous destination known as the Smokehouse.
Exploring Dark Realities: “A Kind of Testament” and “Letter to a Pig”
“Letter to a Pig” (France, Israel) unfolds with heavy line drawings to explore a Holocaust survivor’s thank you letter to a pig that saved his life, unraveling a dark vision in a young girl. Meanwhile, “A Kind of Testament” (France) delves into identity theft as a young woman stumbles upon animations on the internet created from her private selfies.
From Ballet to Dark Fantasies: Diverse Offerings
“Koerkorter (Dog Apartment)” (Estonia) takes us on a surreal journey where a ballet dancer grapples with mundane battles against domestic animals and alcohol addiction in suburban Kolkhoz. “27” (France, Hungary) unfolds as Alice turns 27, daydreaming of escape before a psychedelic party leads to a serious bike accident. The poetic “Pachyderme” (France) paints a dark fairy tale about a girl’s holiday in the countryside, confronting monsters and fears.
Natural Wonders: “Wild Summon”
In “Wild Summon” (U.K.), directors Saul Freed and Karni Arieli offer a natural history fantasy. This animated short, winner of the AIF Special Jury Prize, unravels the life cycle of wild salmon in human form, narrated by the iconic Marianne Faithfull.
As the anticipation builds for the official nominations on January 23, 2024, these animated shorts promise a cinematic journey through emotions, identities, and global perspectives. Stay tuned for the unfolding magic on Oscar night!
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