This 2D, hand-drawn animation by Pixar is a wonderful union of two very disparate characters and how they finally find a common ground for companionship. The film is an exploration of instinctive distrust we often inculcate within ourselves without realising it. This is coupled with an engagement with vulnerability as well as unexpected friendships. Along with it all, the film also gives a glimpse into animal abuse, while effortlessly busting myths about pit bulls being dangerously aggressive. The story is of a kitten and a pit bull, the former extremely apprehensive of the latter in the face of all his attempts for them to be friends. It is finally an act of kindness that brings them together and thus begins a deeply endearing tale of the two overcoming the obstacles in their respective paths. There is fearlessness and trust that the characters find in themselves, aided by each other in the most heartwarming ways. And it is in overcoming these internal hurdles that their true victory lies, suggests the narrative with its conclusion.

Kitbull | Pixar | Short Film of the Day

A cattle farmer's internal dilemmas and his inability to reconcile the fondness that he grew to develop with his animals, with the inherent violence meted out to them as part of his profession, finds the most poignant representation in this documentary film. The story is of Jay Wilde and how he struggles within the norms of an industry that makes it increasingly difficult to pioneer change in its age-old practices. The film works on several levels. The first thing the viewer is most likely to notice, beyond the strength of its subject, is its brilliant, seamless and sophisticated camerawork. This is followed by the patience as well as the meticulousness of the plot which takes its time coming into its own, yet does not underutilise even a single moment. The narrative eventually becomes one of hope, resilience, and above all, kindness. It further offers the most heartwarming portrayal of animals, cows primarily, as not mindless creatures whose sole purpose is to serve humans, but as thinking beings with unique personalities. All of this is achieved without explicitly spelling out anything, and it is in this quiet, nuanced manner that the true strength as well as the success of 73 Cows lies.

73 Cows | Short Film of the Day

Ascendant exists in a beautiful, cinematic, unease-inducing world of its own, developing organically, measuring every step, taking in every progression, before truly revealing its intentions to the viewer. A man wanders around in an abandoned greyhound racing track, allowing himself to take in the glories of the past, the grandeur of an age that has passed him by. As he moves from one corner to another, sipping on a drink from a forgotten bottle, looking at portraits of the greats of the racing world, the narrative draws attention to a sense of admiration within him, perhaps even a longing for a space he cannot inhabit any more. 

Additionally, the black and white cinematography, whether a deliberate choice or technical necessity - adds a sense of disconcertment to the film. It heightens your discomfort with a realm where doe-eyed hounds are pitted against each other, their bone structures humanly-altered to turn them into most optimum racing tools for human recreation. 

While the protagonist may have first allowed us a glimpse into his fascination mixed with curiosity for the lost age, it does not take long for all of it to soon turn to horror, shock and disgust. Do not think for one second that you, the viewer, would be distanced from any of these emotions. The film ensures, as a result of its visual prowess and sophistication, that you feel each of them very deeply. In the process, Ascendant becomes a paradigmatic example of powerful storytelling, which when coupled with technical skill, is capable of producing the most notable results.

Ascendant | Short Film of the Day

The short film becomes the most unexpectedly hilarious development of events as the protagonist, called Matt, chooses to go out for a walk. This seemingly mundane activity turns out to be life-altering when a bat bites him. However, consider yourself mistaken if you think this is the end of Matt's troubles who bites the bat back! Using its mouthful repetition of words and the names of the two characters of the narrative - Matt and the Bat, the film weaves a fun and entertaining plot. As both characters find themselves transforming in a manner that makes them suitable and appropriate for a different existence - Matt sleeps upside down in his apartment, while the Bat no longer enjoys daytime naps, and rents a room - they decide to finally meet for a conversation at a bar. This meeting serves to reveal to both the viewer as well as our characters how they should proceed further in life. The film uses animation to share its story with the audience, and perhaps, even make a comment about acceptance and finally finding where one truly feels at home. Simply because Matt has been located in human society and the Bat in a cave with his chiropteran brethren, is that where they really belong now, after their little encounter?

The Bat and the Matt | Short Film of the Day

The docu-fiction takes us into the lives of Kavya and Shifu, a girl and her pet dog in a locked-down, quiet corner of India. The narrative progresses to reveal the manner in which the genetic identity of the latter becomes a primary concern. Activities of daily life are portrayed to enable the viewer to participate in the story further. Shifu remains a constant companion to Kavya throughout as she moves from one task to another. 

 The aim of Shewolf is to raise pivotal points about wildlife conservation, in general, and about several endangered species that are often left out of the conversation, as is the case with wolves, in particular. Additionally, it is the narrative's desire to assert a celebratory tone regarding the female energy that comes to dominate the equation unfolding before you, as well as all existence within which it operates. 

 The young protagonist of the story is cheery, effervescent and a joy to watch. However, because the film is shot on a smartphone, it perhaps stands to gain from a little more fine-tuning in the department of sound and the stability of visuals. Notwithstanding, the final result remains warmth-inducing and well-intentioned.

Shewolf | Short Film Nominee

The film locates itself in a world of talking rabbits and vegetarian hawks. The animation is simple and sweet, especially in the educational message it carries for primarily a young audience, but also for anyone who would listen. From openness to change, to the ability to trust each other, the film invokes them all. There is further a discussion about caution, and also keeping it in check, away from the territory of paranoia. When it comes to humans and their equation and interactions with the family of the five rabbits at the heart of the story, the viewer is introduced to a little girl called Natalie. Like any other child, Natalie has a conflicted relationship with broccoli, dreams of adventure and the ability to be able to explore a world where she does not have to eat green vegetables, and is finally allowed to truly be at ease with her freedom. As the paths of all these characters cross, an informative narrative is conjured for the viewer's benefit. Lessons are invoked about your location in the world, making the film an endearing story of kindness, acceptance, innocence and familial love.

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