Negative Space

I'll be blunt. This year's collection of Oscar nominated animated films are a rather sorry lot...there, I said it. Most of the films are nice and reasonably well made but really nothing more....which makes me wonder who picks these films as well as what criteria they are using for their selections. Of all the picks, I think "Negative Space" is the most confusing as I just can't see what makes this one special.

The animation is okay. The characters are unique but also a little grotesque. The story is about a boy who connects with his father through efficient packing of suitcases. And, all this is punctuated by a joke at the very end that made many in the theater laugh...but I kept thinking "all this just for one joke??!!".

Beautiful animation. Sometimes death just leaves behind some weird trademarks from the person who is no longer with us. I completely identify with this little story. Its emotion is in its simplicity. The negative space for me is also the negative space in the heart of this little boy who has grown up and could never connect more with his dad.

"Look at all that wasted space, look at all that wasted Time" One of the best Father Son Stories ever made even if it's only a 5 min Short Film, The level of creativity is stunning.

I'm not usually a fan of stop motion, but this animated short completely exceeded my expectations. I initially underestimated it after reading the outline, but I was proven wrong.

First, the story is emotional, touching, and deeply relatable. It genuinely feels like it's drawn from someone's real-life experiences-particularly the relationship with a father who was often away traveling for work, while other kids' dads were at home playing with them. Yet, despite the distance, a meaningful bond was formed through the suitcase. The film even manages to slip in a bit of humor along the way.

Second, the visual creativity is outstanding. The symbolism throughout is powerful, and several scenes-like the zipper moment and the ocean sequences-are absolutely brilliant and visually stunning. It's not something I ever expected to say about a stop motion animation.

'NEGATIVE SPACE': Four Stars (Out of Five)

A 5-minute animated short film about a young boy, named Sam, who's always away from his dad, due to the busy parent's frequent business trips. The father is still able to keep a relationship with his son though, by teaching the boy how to pack a suitcase. This short was directed by Max Porter and Ru Kuwahata. I found it to be simple, but quirky and interesting enough (in a very odd way). The animation has a lot of character to it, and so does the film. It's even a little touching, and funny as well (in some places). I can definitely see why the Academy likes it.