Sometimes we tend to forget what is closest to us. Right here, in the Netherlands, there's an abundance of talent. Have faith, trust us, and discover the best of Dutch animation.
Think the Netherlands is only about tulips, cheese, and canals? Think again. This short film programme proves we've got more talent than just riding bikes without breaking a sweat. Turns out, when we're not busy dodging rain or winning sports medals, we're actually crafting brilliant animation films... There is so much talent right here, in the Netherlands, that Kaboom just HAS to dedicate a whole competition to Dutch shorts. Who needs Hollywood when you've got the polder?
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An Elephant in the Porcelain Cabinet is a stop-motion and 2D animated short film about damage and how we deal with it, visualized through a fragile space that receives a clumsy visitor. A pretty student exploration into material, technique, and learning to open up, by director Bonne Steinz.
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Urban pigeons are seen as pests, like rats of the sky. They are rudely chased away, and their nests are removed. When a group of pigeons hears that the mayor promises housing for everyone, they decide to submit a petition at the town hall. But first, they have to get past the evil janitor. A coo-licious film by Alina Milkina.
When a sausage dog acts as a bridge, allowing all kinds of animals to literally walk all over him, a cat smells a business opportunity. A very entertaining and satirical nod to capitalism by Jorn Leeuwerink.
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Down in the Dumps is a dark fairy tale written by Britt Snel and directed by paper artist and director Vera van Wolferen. It tells the story of Cinelli, a perfectionist ladybug who excludes the outsider cockroach Peri to prevent her party from being ruined. Peri is not amused and seeks… revenge!
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Director River Roest sees Lil' Guys as an exploration of his love for animation, the exhaustion it can cause, and ultimately, the joy it brings. In this groovy short, lots of small elements come to life, moving to the rhythm of the funky soundtrack.
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After a soldier is knocked out, he awakens to find a little girl staring at him. He tries to kill her but misses, after which he sets off in pursuit. Upon arriving in an urban ruin, he is captured by a mysterious being, which gives the soldier the insight to follow a new path. A disturbing dystopian short film by director Max Gierkink.
Please Make My Wish Come True follows anonymous characters from their first wish as newborns to their final prayers. Through various rituals, it explores universal emotions of frustration, determination, surrender, and hope. A visual poem about hopes and unfulfilled desires, directed by Başak Kırıcı.
When every global citizen is required to have their CO2 emissions tracked through a mandatory mobile app, it seems to have little impact… that is, until they discover the consequences of reaching their designated quota! A hilarious and spot-on short film by Job, Joris & Marieke.
States of Matter is an experimental strata-cut animation crafted entirely from wax and paper. Inspired by Oskar Fischinger's pioneering wax experiments of the 1920s, the film is the result of director Marvin Hauck's research and creative explorations during his postgraduate studies. Complemented by a tactile soundscape, States of Matter offers a space for contemplation and personal interpretation.
A young adult grappling with his thoughts and daily struggles learns he has autism. With the support of therapy and his friend, he strives to accept this reality. The vignettes in this short film are based on the personal experiences of director Loek Vugs. Understanding and accepting who you are was a central part of his therapy and has become the foundation of this project.
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How do second-generation Dutch people with a migration background view their native country? This poetic documentary explores shared memories, insecurities, and conversations revealing how being treated as the "Other" can be internalized. Through interviews, it raises the question of whether one is allowed to feel at home in the Netherlands. An intriguing graphic novel-style documentary by Dutch director Michael Hauwert.
Kaboom Animation Festival is the one-stop-shop for the latest and greatest in all things animated. Ranging from cutting-edge experimental arthouse to colorful stories for families and kids, Kaboom will cater to the animation needs of all. Yes, even yours, my amazing weirdo friend!
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