OIAF 2008: Animated Shorts Competition One
Animators From Around the World Showcase Their Work
Sep 23, 2008
Wednesday, September 17th saw the first screening competition of the Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF), playing at the Bytowne Cinema.
"This is probably the strongest showcase I've ever seen at this festival," one veteran festival goer whispered to his friend during the screening.
Agreed. There was no shortage of talent or creativity among the up-and-coming animators who showcased their shorts at this competition.
Great Short Animation
American high schooler Niven Wilson made an impression with his surreal imagery in the short "Jugglers." Even ignoring the fact that Wilson isn't even old enough to vote (although he could probably sneak into a bar in Quebec!), his short stood proud among the other contenders in this group.
Kara Nasdor-Jones' "I Slept With Cookie Monster" was an autobiographical look at spousal abuse, and was a popular choice, judging by the audience applause. It also impressed the judges, taking both the Best Student film and Best Undergraduate Film awards.
So which was the best film?
Several observers called this crop of short animated films the strongest in years, with many worthy contenders. Edouard Sallier's music video for The Replicants' "User" showcased spectacular images with synth-heavy pop, while Eddie White and James Calvert's "Safer in a Wild World" mixed Maurice Sendak imagery with anime to advertise Mitsubishi motor cars.
Jeremy Clapin's "Skhizein" showcased one man's journey into madness when a meteorite permanently alters his relationship with the world, and Matthew Walker's "Operator" depicted one man's hilarious phone conversation with God.
Serge Elissalsde's "Thé Noir (Black Tea)" was a very funny look at paranoia, while Julien Bocabeille, Emud Mokhberi, Thierry Marchand, Olivier Delabarre, Quentin Marmier and François Xavier Chanioux's "Oktapodi" was a tightly animated short that rivals Pixar in both imagery and story quality. Blu's "Muto" showcased some stunning abstract imagery, and went on to be the jury's #1 pick in that category.
Which Film Rocked Hardest?
But it was Kunio Kato's "La Maison en Petits Cubes (The House of Small Cubes)" that really stood out in this group of shorts. The chronicle of an old man's journey through his memories, it was touching without being cloying. Penciled in soft sepia hues, it was a beautiful story, well told.
"I have not been moved by an animated film like that in such a long time," sighed Nelvana senior animator Sara Newman when asked about the short.
There will be 4 more shorts competitions over the course of OIAF 2008, with the winner receiving the National Film Board (NFB) of Canada Public Prize. Good luck to all the competitors.
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