The Animation Is Film Festival shines a spotlight on the evolving medium of animation, celebrating its influence and innovation in the filmmaking epicenter of the world. This year’s event includes a diverse program with highlights such as the world premiere of “ParaNorman: The Thrifting” and a panel on “Kpop Demon Hunters,” underscoring the festival’s commitment to championing the animation genre.
The three-day celebration unfolds at Hollywood’s TCL Chinese Theatres from Friday to Sunday, offering a platform for both new and established works. The festival opens with the premiere of Mamoru Hosoda’s “Scarlet” and showcases Laika’s “ParaNorman: The Thrifting,” accompanied by an exclusive introduction from director Chris Butler and Anna Kendrick. Also featured is Li Wenyu’s “A Story About Fire,” a tale of adventure involving a monkey and a dog on a perilous journey to the Holy Mountain.
Presented by GKIDS in partnership with Annecy International Animation Film Festival and Variety, the festival, established in 2017, also includes a sold-out panel on Netflix’s “Kpop Demon Hunters.” Hosted by Variety’s Chief Film Critic Peter Debruge, the panel delves into the cultural impact of the film, providing insights from the filmmakers and animators involved.
“With the case of ‘Kpop Demon Hunters,’ you’re dealing with a cultural phenomenon,” explains festival director Matt Kaszanek. “We devised an innovative session featuring conversations with directors, producers, character designers, and animators, offering new perspectives on this film’s current moment.”
Additional programming celebrates young animators worldwide, with opportunities to connect with industry veterans and present their work on the big screen. Kaszanek emphasizes the festival’s role in shaping animation’s future. “In just one weekend in Los Angeles, we aim to present films crucial in evolving the future of animation,” he says. “Seeing the next generation interact with these works for the first time is profoundly gratifying.”
The Animation Is Film Festival is dedicated to elevating the status of animation, bridging gaps in how the medium is perceived. “Our mission is unique,” notes Kaszanek. “We aim to celebrate animation and ensure it’s discussed with the respect it deserves.”
Kaszanek challenges the notion of animation as merely a qualifier. “People often say, ‘It was the best-animated film of the year.’ We want to move beyond that, evolving the conversation around animation.”
