Oscar-Nominated Animated Short ‘Magic Candies’ Captivates Audiences
Yasuko Onda introduces “Magic Candies,” an Oscar-nominated animated short film about Dong-Dong, a boy facing communication barriers. The film utilizes CGI to achieve a unique animated style, reminiscent of stop-motion, while delivering an emotionally powerful story. Highlights include superb direction by Daisuke Nishio and production by Takashi Washio, marking this film as a significant contribution to animated cinema.
Beginning today, Yasuko Onda, a senior writer at Yomiuri Shimbun, will provide movie recommendations to Japan News readers every third Friday of the month. Onda is well-versed in cinema, having interviewed numerous filmmakers and actors throughout her career.
At the 97th Academy Awards, the film “Anora” won Best Picture and secured four additional Oscars, earning acclaim for its portrayal of a romance that bridges class divides, featuring a New York stripper and the descendant of a Russian oligarch. Directed and written by Sean Baker, the film is celebrated for its captivating camera work and the endearing character of its heroine.
Baker expressed gratitude in his acceptance speech, emphasizing that the Academy’s acknowledgement of “a truly independent film” signifies a shift away from the dominance of major Hollywood productions at the Oscars. The awards continue to play a significant role in promoting films, even in Japan, where one notable contender this year is “Magic Candies,” or “Amedama” in Japanese.
Nominated for an Oscar in the animated short category, this 21-minute film had previously gained attention at various children’s film festivals but remained relatively obscure. The narrative follows Dong-Dong, a boy facing communication challenges, who gains the ability to hear the voices of objects and animals through magic candies, leading to significant personal growth.
The character of Dong-Dong touches audiences deeply, navigating his loneliness through a facade of toughness while revealing a genuinely wistful heart. His relatable struggles resonate not just with children but also with adults, inviting viewers into a world of delicate emotional expression.
“Magic Candies” adapts a story by South Korean author Baek Heena, noted for her unique doll creations and elaborate sets used in her picture books, which she crafts and shoots independently. The film utilizes CGI to captivate its audience, convincingly resembling stop-motion animation through its attention to detail and character design.
The filmmakers maintained fidelity to the original story and character designs while enhancing the film’s expressiveness with vibrant textures and natural movements. Notably, the Kansai dialect used in the Japanese dub enriches the dialogue’s rhythm. Compared to the original picture book, the film transforms the narrative into a grand concerto that resonates emotionally with viewers.
Director Daisuke Nishio and producer Takashi Washio, known for the popular franchise “Pretty Cure,” showcase their artistic talents through “Magic Candies,” pushing the limits of animated storytelling. Although the film’s theatrical run in Japan has concluded, there remains hope for broader viewing opportunities.
In summary, Yasuko Onda’s recommendation highlights the significance of “Magic Candies” as an Oscar-nominated animated short that resonates with audiences of all ages. The film’s touching story of Dong-Dong illustrates the importance of emotional connections, backed by impressive animation techniques that blend CGI and traditional artistry. These elements, alongside the contributions of skilled filmmakers, solidify “Magic Candies” as a notable work in contemporary animation.
Original Source: japannews.yomiuri.co.jp
