London International Animation Festival — Review

ATYP’s reviewing program was created to give young people a platform to voice their opinions and experiences while developing skills in critical reflection. The views expressed are those of the writer and do not reflect the views of ATYP or its staff.

A captivating tapestry of vibrant short films, London International Animation Festival engrosses any audience member, big or small.

Presented by Sydney Opera House, the festival showcases a range of short films, varying in style, mood and genre. Stand-outs from the 10-14-year-old section include Rabbit And Deer, which is a multi-media and multidimensional tale about the changing of relationships, directed by Péter Vácz. Herman Brown Is Feeling down, that is a beautiful and amusing watercolour short about how we deal with anxiety, directed by Dan Castro. And Pete, a 3D animated story that explores gender identity and sexism, directed by Bret Parker.

Each film shown was of an extraordinarily high and sophisticated calibre. Across the board the animation was diverse and captivating, sculpting beautiful worlds for each story. The characters presented were continuously striking, witty, and memorable, which engrossed and connected the audience to the shorts. Alongside this the sound design was immensely impressive in every short. Most shorts utilised limited dialogue and relied on composition to guide the story, which it did excellently, consistently pulling audiences into the whimsical, emotional worlds of the stories.

The festival boasted a range of potent meanings and morals. Each moral was shared with an elegant subtleness, that allowed it to be profoundly impactful and digestible for younger audiences. Tend, directed by Tom Judd and Ed Barratt, may have been the only film that would have benefitted from an older audience, as its gorgeously powerful meaning seemed to fly over some audience members heads. But, besides this, the curation of the festival must be commended, due to the vibrant diversity of shorts, and the delightfully entertaining nature of each piece.

Whether you are an adult or child, you are certain to enjoy the London International Animation Festival. Once you arrive, it’s easy to get lost in each world presented and to be mystified by the unified skill and talent. And after you leave, you are certain to be left with a newfound sense of enchantment and a collection of powerful messages.

— Astra Milne