Oscars 2021: Animated Film Nominees - A Deep Dive
The 93rd Academy Awards celebrated the best in film from 2020, and the Animated Feature Film category was no exception. In this article, we'll delve into the nominees, exploring what made each film stand out and why they earned a coveted spot in the running for the Oscar.
A Look at the Nominees
The nominees for Best Animated Feature Film at the 2021 Oscars were:
- Onward
- Over the Moon
- Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon
- Soul
- Wolfwalkers
Each of these films brought something unique to the table, showcasing the diverse range of storytelling and artistic styles within the animation world. Let's dive deeper into each nominee.
Onward
Onward, from Pixar Animation Studios, takes us on a fantastical journey with two elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt. Set in a suburban fantasy world where magic has been replaced by modern technology, the brothers embark on a quest to spend one last day with their deceased father. The film blends humor, heart, and adventure, exploring themes of brotherhood, loss, and self-discovery.
Onward's nomination was well-deserved, as it captured the essence of Pixar's storytelling prowess. The animation is visually stunning, seamlessly blending the mundane suburban setting with fantastical elements like dragons and unicorns turned into pets. The character development is also a strong point, with Ian and Barley's relationship evolving throughout their journey. The film's emotional core resonates with audiences of all ages, reminding us of the importance of family and the power of believing in ourselves. The film's themes of loss and grief were particularly poignant, given the real-world events of 2020, making it a timely and relatable story. Onward isn't just a visually appealing animated film; it's a narrative that encourages us to appreciate the magic in our everyday lives and the importance of familial bonds, making it a standout contender in the animated film landscape.
Over the Moon
Over the Moon, a collaboration between Netflix and Pearl Studio, tells the story of Fei Fei, a young girl who builds a rocket to the moon to prove the existence of the Moon Goddess, Chang'e. This vibrant and colorful film is a celebration of Chinese culture, mythology, and the power of belief. Cathy Ang voices Fei Fei, and the film features songs by Christopher Curtis, Marjorie Duffield, and Helen Park.
Over the Moon distinguished itself with its breathtaking animation and vibrant portrayal of Chinese mythology. The film seamlessly blends traditional animation with CGI, creating a visually stunning world that is both fantastical and culturally rich. The musical numbers are catchy and emotionally resonant, further enhancing the storytelling. Beyond its visual and auditory appeal, Over the Moon tackles themes of grief, loss, and the importance of family. Fei Fei's journey to the moon is driven by her desire to reconnect with her deceased mother, and her interactions with Chang'e, the Moon Goddess, provide her with solace and understanding. The film beautifully illustrates how cultural traditions and stories can help us cope with loss and find hope in the face of adversity. Its vibrant animation, memorable songs, and heartfelt narrative made Over the Moon a strong contender for the Oscar, showcasing the growing diversity and creativity within the animated film industry.
Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon
Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon, from Aardman Animations, brings back the beloved stop-motion character Shaun the Sheep in another hilarious adventure. This time, Shaun and his flock encounter a cute alien named Lu-La, who crash-lands near Mossy Bottom Farm. Together, they must help Lu-La return home before the nefarious Ministry for Alien Detection captures her.
Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon stands out with its impeccable stop-motion animation and clever, slapstick humor. Aardman Animations has perfected the art of creating expressive characters and engaging stories using clay animation, and this film is no exception. The visual gags are expertly timed, and the characters' personalities shine through despite the lack of dialogue. The film's plot is simple yet effective, providing ample opportunities for comedic set pieces and heartwarming moments. Farmageddon is a testament to the enduring appeal of stop-motion animation and the power of visual storytelling. Its universal humor and charming characters make it a delightful watch for audiences of all ages, and its nomination was a well-deserved recognition of Aardman's continued excellence in the field of animation. The dedication to the craft is evident in every frame, making it a standout nominee among the other animated features.
Soul
Soul, another Pixar masterpiece, takes us on a philosophical journey with Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher who dreams of becoming a professional jazz musician. Voiced by Jamie Foxx, Joe experiences an existential crisis after an accident separates his soul from his body, leading him to the Great Before, where souls are given personalities before being born.
Soul is a groundbreaking film that tackles complex themes of identity, purpose, and the meaning of life. Pixar's signature animation style is elevated to new heights, with stunning visuals that capture the ethereal beauty of the afterlife and the vibrant energy of New York City. The film's music, composed by Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross, and Jon Batiste, is equally impressive, seamlessly blending jazz, electronic, and classical elements to create a truly unique soundscape. Beyond its technical achievements, Soul is a deeply moving and thought-provoking film that encourages viewers to appreciate the simple joys of life and to find purpose in their passions. Joe's journey of self-discovery is relatable to audiences of all ages, and the film's message of embracing the present moment is particularly relevant in today's fast-paced world. Soul's win at the Oscars was a testament to its artistic merit and its profound impact on audiences, solidifying its place as one of Pixar's most ambitious and thought-provoking films.
Wolfwalkers
Wolfwalkers, from Cartoon Saloon, is a beautifully hand-drawn animated film set in 17th century Ireland. The story follows Robyn Goodfellowe, a young apprentice hunter who befriends Mebh Óg MacTíre, a member of a tribe believed to have the ability to transform into wolves. As Robyn delves deeper into the world of the Wolfwalkers, she discovers the magic and mystery of the Irish wilderness and questions her father's mission to eradicate the wolves.
Wolfwalkers is a visual masterpiece that showcases the beauty and artistry of traditional hand-drawn animation. Cartoon Saloon's distinctive style is evident in every frame, with intricate details, vibrant colors, and expressive character designs. The film's story is equally compelling, exploring themes of cultural understanding, environmentalism, and the importance of empathy. Robyn's journey of self-discovery is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, as she learns to see the world from a different perspective and challenges the prejudices of her community. Wolfwalkers is more than just an animated film; it's a work of art that celebrates Irish folklore and history while delivering a powerful message about the importance of preserving our natural world. Its nomination was a well-deserved recognition of Cartoon Saloon's dedication to traditional animation and their ability to create stories that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. The rich details in the character designs and the meticulously crafted backgrounds make Wolfwalkers a true visual treat.
And the Winner Is...
Soul took home the Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film in 2021. Its innovative storytelling, stunning animation, and profound themes resonated with audiences and critics alike, solidifying its place as a modern classic.
Final Thoughts
The 2021 Oscar nominees for Best Animated Feature Film showcased the incredible talent and diversity within the animation industry. From Pixar's philosophical journey in Soul to Cartoon Saloon's hand-drawn masterpiece Wolfwalkers, each film offered a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. These films not only entertained audiences but also challenged them to think about important issues such as identity, purpose, and environmentalism. The Oscars 2021 animated film nominations were a testament to the power of animation as a storytelling medium, capable of captivating audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The variety of styles and narratives among the nominees proves that animation is not just for children; it is a powerful art form that can explore complex themes and offer profound insights into the human condition.