Whenever I watch the Oscars and the short films pop up I’m always upset with all the amazing looking films I haven’t seen. This is especially true for the animated category where everything usually looks utterly charming and wonderful. This year was no different, with the winner, The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore, looking beyond great. Unfortunately I’d only seen that clip… until now.
The short has popped up on YouTube (maybe to be taken down soon), and the 15 minute film is truly worth a watch. The animation style, which combines CGI, claymation, 2D art and a plethora of other techniques feels rich and alive and the story is fantastic. A little bit Wizard of Oz and a whole lot of love for books combine to make a great short.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out that you can buy the film in HD for iTunes. You can check out our take on all the animated shorts nominated this year right here.
[The Film Stage, via /Film]