The world of stop motion animation is filled with so much wonder and beauty. The animator’s craftsmanship and skill is so impeccable that it is often hard to believe they made it all by hand. Stop motion also is not just limited to clay; there are a myriad of mediums that animators play with, like cloth, silicon, wood, paper, metal or even food. The possibilities are truly endless! I have created a list here to share some of my 5 current favorite short films. Sit back, relax and enjoy some gorgeous artistry and breathtaking storytelling!
- The Maker
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This short film is one of my absolute favorites and is actually the inspiration for my final project. I love everything about it, from the puppet designs to the staging to the story. It appears to be a commentary on humanity, creation and rebirth. As one being ceases to exist, another is made in its place, hence the title. This short toys with the idea of “playing God” and incorporates a Tim Burton-esque style to add to the eerie gothic atmosphere.Â
- The Rifle’s Spiral
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This stop motion piece is actually the official music video for “The Rifle’s Spiral” by The Shins. It details a story of rebellion, revolution and freedom where the main character uses her magical powers to rescue a rabbit from the evil men in tophats. This film also seems to take inspiration from Tim Burton’s gothic imagery, as seen in the characters’ gaunt and almost skeletal appearances. Â
- Elliot the Bull – ColourmindÂ
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This film is absolutely gorgeous and executed so well. Even though the characters are sharp and lack curves (because they are made of wood), their movements flow so smoothly and flawlessly. The design is so cute, and this story also plays with the idea of life/death and creation/destruction. We see two polar opposite creatures face off with their powers, but it is done in a way that appears more curious than violent/aggressive.Â
- Lost and Found
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This work of stop motion really hits you with all the feels. It follows a tiny knit dinosaur’s journey as it tries to save its fox lover from drowning. We watch as the dinosaur slowly unwinds its body in an attempt to reach the fox before it is too late. The dinosaur commits a true act of unconditional love by sacrificing itself for the fox. The characters are made using the amigurumi knitting technique, which is used for making small stuffed toys as such.
- Traveling Through Brush and Ink
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This work is really unique as it combines both 2D and 3D art to create a multi-dimensional world of beauty and mystery. The paper craftsmanship is phenomenal, and the stage backgrounds take influence from ancient Chinese paintings to bring this mystic energy to the animated world.Â
Whether you like animation or not, you need to at least check these shorts out! They have really helped open my eyes to the wonder and beauty of the stop motion short world. Who knows, they might even inspire you to go out and try stop motion yourself.Â