Ukraine Benefit: Kaboom x Linoleum Festival
65 min. | Dialogue Language: English
In these challenging times, it is important to showcase the beauty and variety of Ukrainian animation. This program is curated by Linoleum, the International Contemporary Animation and Media Art Festival that is held in Kyiv every year, since 2014. The festival is the biggest platform for short independent animation in Ukraine.
A message from Anastasiya Verlinska, director of Linoleum:
Our lives changed forever on February 24th. Not just the Ukrainian ones, but the European ones as well. While Ukraine is on fire, protecting its own existence, Ukrainian artists become soldiers, fighters, territorial defenders, and volunteers.
We don't have this illusion that art can be a real weapon right now, same as the words of concern. But it could be the bridge between us and Europe that is finally ready to understand what is so special about Ukraine that the evil empire is ready to start World War III and put the whole world under atomic danger.
Watch Ukrainian short animations from the time "before the war".
Any profits from this special Kaboom program will go to Linoleum to continue their support for Ukrainian animation.
Unnecessary Things
Could a robot adopt a pet in the near future? – Sure, why not. – Could this pet be a human? – Well, it could be possible in the future. – Could they become friends? – Probably yes. - …And what would become of the robot afterwards? – Listen, to hell with your questions!
Deep Love
Welcome to the city of Dnipro. Partly a documentary through the prism of absurdity and black humour, the film tells the story about a big city during historical changes and decommunisation. A unique and often outrageous satire about post-Soviet Ukraine.
The Surrogate
In this grim and menacing tale, a man destroys the nest of an unknown creepy creature. But it's not the most horrible creature he will meet tonight.
Paper or Plastic
An immigrant comes to the first-world country to paint a mural on the tallest tower. He tries to adapt to the new reality, but xenophobia and odd rules force him to go back.
Until It Turns Black
When the truth hurts and nothing can be changed, it seems like escape to the world of dreams is the only way out. Fantasy could relieve the pain, but - wait - is that a magic pill?
The Deep Water
Mermaid movies are the best! And here's a new one! In this cute Ukrainian short, a lonely chubby mermaid is keen on peeking at people through water pipes using magic. One day, during such a spying, the mermaid falls in love with a man, and blinded by passion, comes to his apartment.
The Responsible Hero
Tragicomedic story about rescue attempt and its consequences based and inspired mostly by cheesy yet charming Superman movies from 70-80s. It is a simple straightforward story with a cheerful and a little bit nostalgic atmosphere contrasted by a grim and sudden twist.