Directed by Gints Zilbalodis, children animation, 74 min, no spoken language, 5+
Written by Gints Zilbalodis
Unfolding in four chapters, this gorgeously made animation tells the story of a young boy who, accompanied by a little bird, travels across a mysterious island, crossing barren deserts and beautiful forests, trying to return home, all the while being pursued by a relentless dark spirit. On the way he makes a series of connections with different animals and reflects on the possible ways he ended up on the island. Part dream, part reality, ,the storyline is a sort of reflection on the creative process of the making of the film itself.
An extraordinary, visually beautiful and immersive animated story, the fruit of over three years’ work by the new Latvian animator and director Gints Zilbalodis, Away brings up the everlasting universal need for bonding and connection. Filled with captivating scenes, the imagery reveals more than words in this exciting and imaginative fable, bringing to mind the works of the great Hayao Miyazaki.
Awards:
Annecy IAFF 2019 (Contrechamp Award)
Anima Mundi IFF 2019 (Best Feature Film for Children)
Shanghai IFF 2019 (Official Selection)