An eclectic assortment of edgy animated short films from across the globe.
*Some themes may be too intense for children under 13.
*Some themes may be too intense for children under 13.
*Online screenings will be available for three days of program start.
|
|
Hide & Seek
"Hide & Seek" is an animated short film that narrates the story of a child and his fish on their journey into the unknown, following the raid on the child's town during the ongoing war ravaging his country. The short film captures the steps of this journey and its transformations, concluding as the child reaches one of the coasts.
Director: Rami Abbas Country of Origin: State of Palestine
Length: 7:14 Minutes |
Rami Abbas, born in Damascus in 1983, and of Palestinian origin, is a multifaceted artist, filmmaker, and animator. He graduated from the Institute of Applied Arts in Damascus in 2003 and subsequently dedicated six years of his career to Al-Zahra Company, where he served as an animator contributing to the creation of various animation programs and series for Spacetoon and other prominent channels.
In addition to his professional commitments, Abbas demonstrated his commitment to community service by volunteering in the Yarmouk Palestinian refugee camp and in Spain, where he shared his expertise as an animation and photography instructor. Furthering his education, he pursued animation studies in Madrid, Spain, in 2013, and engaged in numerous individual animation projects.
In 2007, Rami Abbas embarked on a meaningful collaboration with UNRWA, where he wrote and directed his first experimental film, "And Wheat...," inspired by a workshop with Palestinian refugee children from Iraq stranded in the Tanf camp on the Syrian-Iraqi borders. His promotional video "Yarmouk (When You're Born a Refugee)," created in 2014, garnered attention on social networking sites and was showcased at cultural and human rights events in Spain, Britain, and various European countries.
From 2013 to 2016, Abbas contributed his talents as a cartoonist to Al Jazeera, showcasing his versatility in the realm of media. His diverse portfolio includes work as an animator and director in various artistic endeavors, such as paintings, website and book graphics, sinographs for theater, anime videos, and graphics, all in response to the evolving socio-cultural landscape of Arab societies.
His most recent accomplishment is the short animation film "Hide & Seek," where Abbas served as the art director and director in 2023/2024.
In addition to his professional commitments, Abbas demonstrated his commitment to community service by volunteering in the Yarmouk Palestinian refugee camp and in Spain, where he shared his expertise as an animation and photography instructor. Furthering his education, he pursued animation studies in Madrid, Spain, in 2013, and engaged in numerous individual animation projects.
In 2007, Rami Abbas embarked on a meaningful collaboration with UNRWA, where he wrote and directed his first experimental film, "And Wheat...," inspired by a workshop with Palestinian refugee children from Iraq stranded in the Tanf camp on the Syrian-Iraqi borders. His promotional video "Yarmouk (When You're Born a Refugee)," created in 2014, garnered attention on social networking sites and was showcased at cultural and human rights events in Spain, Britain, and various European countries.
From 2013 to 2016, Abbas contributed his talents as a cartoonist to Al Jazeera, showcasing his versatility in the realm of media. His diverse portfolio includes work as an animator and director in various artistic endeavors, such as paintings, website and book graphics, sinographs for theater, anime videos, and graphics, all in response to the evolving socio-cultural landscape of Arab societies.
His most recent accomplishment is the short animation film "Hide & Seek," where Abbas served as the art director and director in 2023/2024.
|
i killed a worm
Haunted by a childhood memory, a girl scales a mountain of her regrets to learn how to exist and live with her inner guilt.
Director: Despi Markaki
Despina Markaki is a 28-year-old recent graduate student from the University of the Arts in London, in BA Animation. She finds joy in blending and experimenting with various mediums to create something truly original and authentic. Through her creative vision, she invites others to explore the uncharted territories of their most inner thoughts and fears. She was born and raised in Greece and now lives in London. Patricia Seriniyom is a 23-year-old recent graduate student from the University of the Arts in London, in BA Animation. She sets to explore themes of self-reflection through visual storytelling in her work. Utilizing her skills as an animator and writer as well as her love for traditional animation, she aims to create films of universal experiences with unique imagery. She was born and raised in Thailand and now lives in London. Country of Origin: United Kindom
Length: 4:23 Minutes Student Film |
|
|
Country of Origin: Philippines
Length: 11:01 Minutes |
The Bell
Life is good in Padre Pi's town because of his magical bell. But what about the other towns? Society will crumble in this 11-minute short!
Directed by: Mark Mendoza Mark Mendoza is a writer-director based in the Philippines and is one of the most sought-after animation directors in the local commercial industry. His first short film "Bebot" (2022) won numerous awards and selections. From then on he continued to make more short films. He was also part of Annecy's mentorship program in 2022 where he learned insights to create bigger projects. He is currently developing a children's show called Makopa MD and 2 features "Rage Radio" and "Yama" |
|
Wetsitales : The Frog Who Wished to be as Big as an Ox
There was an initial accident in the pond, a mother frog wanted to avenge her loss, perhaps grief, perhaps overwhelming emotions led her to get into another fatal accident. A sad day for frogs. A folk tale from Cebu
Directed by: Jade Dandan Evangelista Jade Dandan Evangelista aka Wetsipon is a typical kid with a love of drawing and creating. She is a digital native artist and relatively started late in her pencil skills but when the images formed, she never stopped. She expresses herself in music, coding, clay sculpting, drawing, video, and animation. At the time of production, she is currently in grade 6 as a homeschooler at Homeschool Global - Victory Christian International School. Country of Origin: Philippines
Length: 3:05 Minutes Student Film |
|
|
|
It Will Pass Away
After the end of a relationship that went nowhere, a woman's complex emotions seem to be amplified, and in the midst of insomnia she feels she can touch the many subtle voices...
Directed by: Nan Yao Nan Yao Animation director，Illustrator Master of China Academy of Art Country of Origin: China
Length: 5:08 Minutes |
|
25
On 25 april 1974 a revolution led by a military movement ended the dictatorial regime in Portugal and initiated implementation of democracy. Since then the word freedom has become part of people's voices and actions.
Directed by: 6D Student class Country of Origin: Portugal
Length: 3:05 Minutes |
|
|
|
Rise Up & Fight
Three Freedom Summer Civil Rights volunteers—Andrew Goodman, James Chaney and Michael Schwerner—return to Mississippi 60 years after their untimely deaths expecting a world of change. They are shocked to discover that human rights issues are still plaguing our nation and, accordingly, issue an urgent call to action!
Directed by: Nolan Williams, Jr. Nolan Williams, Jr., Founder & CEO of NEWorks Productions, a leading producer of impact-arts programming and entertainment since 2003, is best described as a creative force. An award-winning producer, director, composer/lyricist, playwright, filmmaker, musicologist, and cultural curator, the multi-hyphenate Williams, Jr. has dedicated his professional career to creating works that illuminate issues of civil rights, social justice, and cultural curiosities. His body of work includes the star-studded viral video “I Have A Right To Vote” (over two million global media hits), the award-winning documentary, “Becoming Douglass Commonwealth” (winner of ten media prizes); and a slate of theatrical productions, including his critically-hailed new musical, GRACE (winner of eleven 2022 Broadway World Washington, DC Awards, including best musical and best new musical). nolanwilliamsjr.com Country of Origin: United States
Length: 5:00 Minutes Student Film |
|
My Turn!
One sunny morning in Jakarta, Indonesia, Beth and her younger sister Liz become fierce rivals in their race to the bathroom. Beth regrets unintentionally hurting her little sister during the scuffle, and they both realize how much they care about each other.
This short film embraces the charm of 2D animation, paying homage to the classic styles of Saturday morning cartoons. At its core, My Turn! is about the childhood experiences of director Isabelle Tumboimbela growing up with her younger sister. This film hopes to provide Southeast Asian representation to the animation medium. Produced in San Jose, California, USA at San Jose State University in association with the Shrunkenheadman Club Directed by: Isabelle Maria Tumboimbela, Daisha Lin Sherman Born and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia, Isabelle is an emerging filmmaker with a passion for animation. She recently graduated from San Jose State University's Animation/ Illustration program and is ready to start her career in games or film. In addition to her work as a director, Isabelle also has skills in 2D and 3D animation, lighting, compositing, storyboarding, and illustration. With this multitude of skills across departments, Isabelle is ready to tackle every project she undertakes. As Isabelle continues her animation journey, she hopes to explore the communities and experiences that lack representation in media and of course while having fun with it. Daisha Sherman is an enthusiastic 2D animator, painter, and illustrator who has recently graduated from San Jose State University with a BFA in Animation/Illustration. She’s incredibly passionate about art in all forms, particularly the magic and life that’s found in 2D animation. Her experience in visual development and storytelling has her excited to embrace all opportunities and journeys that await in the future! |
Country of Origin: United States
Length: 4:53 Minutes Student film |
|
Country of Origin: China
Length: 5:16 Minutes |
In Ten Minuets
The little granddaughter lives with her grandmother. Grandma waits for her granddaughter at home after school every day.
That day, grandma still cooked the meal, but she couldn't wait for her granddaughter to come back. Grandma's worries about her granddaughter turned into exaggerated imagination, filling every moment of waiting...... Directed by: Fu Xiaoyue 傅晓悦，性别女，民族汉，2003年2月出生，山东省东营人，北京电影学院动画专业本科学生。曾参与制作《偷时间的表》、《许愿树》等作品。熟练掌握二维动画软件tvp、flash和csp、绘图软件ps和procreate，掌握后期剪辑软件达芬奇、ae，基本掌握三维动画软件blender。 Fu Xiaoyue, female, Han nationality, born in February 2003, is a native of Dongying, Shandong province, majoring in Beijing Film Academy Animation. He has worked on works such as “The time thief” and “Lam Tsuen wishing trees”. Master two-dimensional animation software TVP, Flash and CSP, drawing software PS and procreate, master post-editing software da Vinci, AE, basic grasp three-dimensional animation software blender. |
|
The Big Change
In a not too distant time, freedom of choice and expression were not acquired rights of a people. A big change needed to happen. Directed by: Andreína Agrela;Eduardo Namora ; Matias Oliveira; Jayden Pereira; João Sousa; Liane Aranjuren; Margarida Sousa; Soraia Santos; Matilde Correia; Nancy Paixão; Santiago Gonçalves; Simon Freitas; Tomás Teles; Vitória Ferreira Born in Tokyo in 1989. Graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts, Department of Intermedia Art in 2015. In 2017, he completed the animation major at the same school. In 2020 he entered the doctoral program at the same graduate school. "RADIO WAVE" "AEON" "CASTLE", and others have won 20 awards and have been selected for over 150 film festivals. Director Statement: I created an animation using ink on paper and mainly uses long single takes. Country of Origin: Portugal
Length: 3:00 Minutes Student Film |
|
|
|
Buffalo
Water buffalo is a gentle and strong creature. One day, as I reflected on why I was attracted to this animal, I recalled the first time I saw a water buffalo at my grandmother's house as a child. I didn’t perceive it as gentle back then, but in that scene, my parents showed a side of themselves I had never seen before—they were happy and relaxed.
Directed by: Yiheng Li Graduated from China University of Geosciences in 2023.Live in China. Country of Origin: China
Length: 3:12 Minutes Student Film |
|
A Dog's Purpose
"A Dog's Purpose" is a heartwarming animated story about a playful puppy named Loso who enters the lives of a family struggling to find joy and purpose. As Loso grows, he becomes not just a pet but a beloved family member, bringing laughter, companionship, and a renewed sense of purpose to each family member.
However, as Loso ages, he begins to face health challenges. The family rallies around him, providing love and care as he bravely battles his illness. Despite their efforts, Loso eventually passes away, leaving a void in their hearts. Through their grief, the family reflects on Loso's impact on their lives. They realize that although he may be gone, his legacy of love, joy, and purpose lives on in their memories. "A Dog's Purpose" is a poignant tale that celebrates the bond between humans and animals, showcasing how even the smallest creatures can bring immense meaning to our lives. Directed by: Suhra Nahib Suhra Nahib is an emerging filmmaker whose work is rapidly making waves in the independent film scene. With a keen eye for visual storytelling and a passion for exploring the human experience, Suhra brings a unique blend of artistry and authenticity to her projects. Suhra has already garnered attention with her animated short film, "Breathe," which won Best Short and has been nominated in several festivals. Suhra's work often delves into the complexities of identity, relationships, and resilience, creating thought-provoking pieces that resonate with a diverse audience. Her ability to capture raw, unfiltered moments on screen sets her apart as a storyteller. Currently based in Boston, MA. |
Country of Origin: United States
Length: 3:09 Minutes |
|
|
shush
This is an animated short with no dialogue, based on Taoist culture, mainly about a Taoist god Mazu who takes on human form but is afraid of being noticed by people. Then a young Taoist boy accidentally wanders into her temple, and an interesting interaction happens between them.
Directed by: Yihe Zhao Country of Origin: China
Length: 1:58 Minutes |
|
Lawrence of Moravia
The Catholic clergyman Alois Musil is one of the most important discoverers of the archaeological treasures of the Muslim world. He was caught in the Middle East by WW1. The Austrian government at that time wanted to turn him into a spy, which is why he is known today as the „Moravian Lawrence of Arabia“. The printed sheets of Musil‘s travelogues inspired the director and artist Jan Cechl to create traditional, semi-plastic puppets that experience dangerous adventures in the fairy-tale Orient, full of fiery genie and Bedouin wisdom. As a Sheikh Músa ar Ruelli, the Moravian priest becomes a wild nomad of the desert, and during a dangerous expedition he discovers the lost Amra Castle, which makes him famous throughout the world. At the same time it is also a playful reference to one of the most valuable jewels of world cinema - the film Lawrence of Arabia by David Lean.
Directed by: Jan Čapar Country of Origin: Czech Republic
Length: 14:00 Minutes |
|
|
|
Common Fly
Nobody cares about Jeff, a middle aged housefly crushed by unfulfilled expectations. A dissatisfying marriage, insufferable children, and mind-numbing job push him to try to regain control of his life.
Directed by: Ian Alexander Castracane Director Ian Castracane grew up in Eastern Massachusetts and currently attends Northwestern University in Illinois. When he isn't studying, Ian loves painting, biking, photography, and writing, and is fascinated by finding ways to combine his passions through the medium of film. Ian has worked on several of his peers' student sets at school and dreams of creating a feature animation. Director StatementI've always loved stop motion animation for it's tangibility, and have found it to be the perfect crossroads between my interests in visual art and film. Common Fly began as a script reflecting my hesitancy to enter the corporate world and quickly turned into a full time passion project that has taught me so much about animation and the art of working with what you've got. Country of Origin: United States
Length: 14:11 Minutes Student Animator |