“ZIMA” AND “SUCH MIRACLES DO HAPPEN” WIN JAPANESE FESTIVAL
Tomek Popakul and Kasumi Ozeki's film scooped the Grand Prix, whilst Barbara Rupik's production won the title of best student animation at New Chitose Airport International Animation.
New Chitose Airport International Animation is a rather extraordinary affair, held in the most unconventional of venues – the New Chitose Airport in Japan. This cinematic celebration draws animation buffs and creators from across the globe, offering screenings, workshops, and meetings with artists. Its unique location within an international terminal allows cinephiles from various corners of the world to easily access the latest animated works in a truly unique atmosphere. The festival has earned its reputation for having an innovative approach to showcasing the art of animation and its commitment to promoting both Japanese and international culture.
This year's edition was taken by storm by Polish animation. The triumph of Tomek Popakul and Kasumi Ozeki's Zima and the accolade in the student film category for Barbara Rupik for Such Miracles Do Happen serve as irrefutable evidence.
The Grand Prix-winning animation presents a mosaic portrait of a small fishing village. It artfully depicts the delicate equilibrium of warm, tender care and cold, emotional cruelty that exists in the interdependence between humans, between humans and animals, and amongst animals themselves. It's a remarkable tale of solitude and community crafted in the spirit of magical realism.
In Barbara Rupik's film, one day all nearby figurines come to life. They emerge from roadside shrines and abandon their pedestals to embark on an unhurried journey, all moving in the same direction without pause. People observe this phenomenon with mounting unease, unaware of why the figures are departing or where they're headed. Only a small girl, with a boneless body, marvels at the procession of these extraordinary characters. They walk without muscles, defying expectation. How peculiar indeed!
A complete list of all awarded titles is available here.