2/11/2017 - 2017 Oscar Animated Shorts

My Pick: Pearl

Oscar Winner: Piper

Pearl (2016) – 7/10 – Perhaps a little retro/stylized for some people’s taste, but so full of heart and delightful story. Terrific little familial tale with a touching musical accompaniment.

Piper (2016) – 7/10 – Will probably win the Oscar. Cute. So. Terribly. Cute. The animation is refined and high quality. I think the story might be little too syrupy and fluff, but its enjoyment can’t be denied.

Pear Cider and Cigarettes (2016) – 7-/10 – I found the story quite engaging and charismatic, with its adult tones, hard lines, and intensity in all facets. I loved the comic book-esqe aesthetic and the personal tone resonating within the tale of a doomed friend. Exotic, striking, and groovy.

Blind Vaysha (2016) – 6/10 – Interestingly expressionistic. The wood-carving-esque animation style was cool. Feel that it was underdeveloped and a bit remedial in regards to the grandiose philosophical question/subject it put forth.

Borrowed Time (2015/2016) – 5+/10 – Gorgeous animation and a nice little story. Just felt that I wanted a bit more, though I enjoyed the somber tone.

Once Upon A Line (2016) – 5/10 – The concept of a story told on a line, along with its symbolism, was really cool but it didn’t do a whole lot. Decent, but I didn’t love it.

Head Vanishes (2016) – 5/10 – Surreal and interesting exploration of dementia. Interesting, but I was held at arms length throughout.