30 Tips and Tricks for Cartoon Comedy

Anttu will share insights from Gigglebug Entertainment’s studio toolkit for creating and producing animated kids comedy that is guaranteed to bring smiles to audiences. These tips will cover slapstick comedy, reaching different age groups and cultural considerations – lessons collated from over a decade of Anttu’s successes and failures.

A Bear Named Wojtek

Displaced by the Second World War, a troop of Polish soldiers find an inseparable bond through an orphaned bear they name Wojtek.

ADORABLE

ADORABLE is an animated film that presents a journey of a queer person where he explores his sexuality and the queer community; the film illustrates an observation of the modern queer society and fantasies toward the freedom of gender fluidity. This work is to reflect the real situation of the community where discriminations, freedom, and love coexist.

All Gucci My Broski

Jonny wants to be a good person. Jonny wants a lot of things.

All Is Not Lost

When a cataclysmic volcanic eruption flings a jumble of debris deep into a dark underground cave, these shattered components of life, an assortment of shells, sticks, eyes, rocks and limbs driven by the eternal instinct for survival, quickly reassemble into new living creatures.

All Those Sensations in my Belly

While transitioning from male to female gender, Matia struggles with finding a genuine intimate relationship with a heterosexual man.

ANF Drinks Reception

After a full engaging day of panels and sessions at Bridgewater Hall, we invite all Animation Nation attendees to join us for some complimentary drinks and networking ahead of the MAF 2023 awards!

Animade Frames Workshop

Join Animade for a drop-in animation workshop. Try out their new animation app “Animade Frame” and instantly animate your drawings at the tap of a button.

Animated Africa (15)

Delight in an overview of cinematic activity from across the African continent from the 1930s to the present showcasing the richness and variety of an animated Africa.

Animated Africa (15)

Delight in an overview of cinematic activity from across the African continent from the 1930s to the present showcasing the richness and variety of an animated Africa.

Animated Answers – The Shorts Road to Success

Unlock the secrets to success in the world of animated short films in this Animated Answers session.

Animated Answers: Demystifying the markets

Delve into the dynamic world of animated film markets with our expert panel.

Animated Commercial Curiosities (15)

Those wonderful short films we see again and again, music videos, interstitials, adverts, explainers and more demonstrate a wealth of animation styles and ideas. Come and see the very best creative responses that shape the world around us.

Animated Commercial Curiosities (15)

Those wonderful short films we see again and again, music videos, interstitials, adverts, explainers and more demonstrate a wealth of animation styles and ideas. Come and see the very best creative responses that shape the world around us.

Animated Connections Conference: Bridging Education and Industry

A dedicated day of discussion that blends industry practice with academic excellence to explore and enhance the prospects for educating in the animated artform.

Animated Immersive Experiences (15)

A selection of the best in immersive animated content submitted to Manchester Animation Festival from around the world. VR and 360 films showcase brave new worlds for animation fans to explore.

This is a free un-ticketed event.

Animated Immersive Experiences (15)

A selection of the best in immersive animated content submitted to Manchester Animation Festival from around the world. VR and 360 films showcase brave new worlds for animation fans to explore.

This is a free un-ticketed event.

Animated Immersive Experiences (15)

A selection of the best in immersive animated content submitted to Manchester Animation Festival from around the world. VR and 360 films showcase brave new worlds for animation fans to explore.

This is a free un-ticketed event.

Animated Immersive Experiences (15)

A selection of the best in immersive animated content submitted to Manchester Animation Festival from around the world. VR and 360 films showcase brave new worlds for animation fans to explore.

This is a free un-ticketed event.

Animation Mixtape: Part 1 (15)

Whether you’re an animation aficionado or this is your first experience beyond the mainstream let MAF welcome you to the world of animation with our selection of international short films playing in competition.

Animation Mixtape: Part 1 (15)

Whether you’re an animation aficionado or this is your first experience beyond the mainstream let MAF welcome you to the world of animation with our selection of international short films playing in competition.

Animation Mixtape: Part 1 (15)

Whether you’re an animation aficionado or this is your first experience beyond the mainstream let MAF welcome you to the world of animation with our selection of international short films playing in competition.

Animation Mixtape: Part 1 (Relaxed Screening) (15)

A relaxed screening of Animation Mixtape: Part 1. Whether you’re an animation aficionado or this is your first experience beyond the mainstream let MAF welcome you to the world of animation with our selection of international short films playing in competition.

Animation Mixtape: Part 2 (18)

This selection showcases the versatility and scope of contemporary animation. A mixture of techniques, storytelling and platforms, this panorama represents the breadth of animation.

Animation Mixtape: Part 2 (18)

Whether you’re an animation aficionado or this is your first experience beyond the mainstream let MAF welcome you to the world of animation with our selection of international short films playing in competition.

Animation Mixtape: Part 2 (18)

Whether you’re an animation aficionado or this is your first experience beyond the mainstream let MAF welcome you to the world of animation with our selection of international short films playing in competition.

Animation Mixtape: Part 2 (Relaxed Screening) (18)

A relaxed screening of Animation Mixtape: Part 2. Whether you’re an animation aficionado or this is your first experience beyond the mainstream let MAF welcome you to the world of animation with our selection of international short films playing in competition.

Ashnikko: Worms

Ashnikko in a monstertruck and a squad of develish beasts ride towards the sunset to battle the angelic overlord robots.

Ask me how I am

A story of self-harm from those living through it.

BBC Children’s: Inform. Educate. Animate.

Everything you need to know about pitching and developing an animation project with BBC Children’s! Meet the finalists from BBC Ignite and hear first-hand about their experience of developing a series idea with BBC Children’s

BBC Family Box Set (PG)

A-WOOF! Join us for a screening courtesy of our friends at BBC Children’s. Filled to the brim with family favourites and cult classics, there’s something for kid’s of all ages – parent’s too!

Best Day Ever

An animated short about those simple childhood memories that ensured you had the BEST DAY EVER.

Black Barbie

A personal journey with skin-bleaching products and questions societal ideals of beauty.

Blooming

Inviting you to look at the world from a plants eye view through a celebration of desire and pleasure.

Blue Peter Amazing Authors: There’s A Big Bad Wolf

There’s a Big Bad Wolf at the back of my shed…

Bluey (Season 2, Episode 26: “Sleepytime”)

After her bedtime story, Bingo tells Mum that tomorrow morning she will be waking up in her own bed. But as she drifts off to sleep, Bingo has a bizarre dream that takes her on a wild adventure.

BLUSH – An Extraordinary Voyage

For Fatu, a simple visit to the grocery store feels as nerve-racking as a lunar expedition: for the first time in his life, he’s
wearing makeup in public.

Boat People

As a child in Vietnam, Thao’s mother often rescued ants from bowls of sugar water. Years later they would return the favour.

Bon Voyage, Sim

A charming narrative of politician frog Sim, president of “toad republic” and the wonders of traveling to countries during his presidential trip.

Boy Girl Dog Cat Mouse Cheese (Season 1, Episode 1: “Greb-Nefual E-neg”

The kids watch a scary old horror movie where a character speaks a certain ancient-language phrase meant to curse the victims to the shadow realm. That phrase? Greb-nefual e-neg! The movie scares some of the kids, but Girl calls it all a bunch of hocus-pocus and speaks the phrase aloud herself.

Braided

Mom always braided my hair so tautly that it carved a distinct path atop my head. But one day, she cut off my braids.

British Animated Short Film Award (12A)

Join us for journey into the heart of contemporary British animation and experience a unique cinematic showcase. From charming tales to thought-provoking narratives, immerse yourself in the creativity and innovation of British animators and discover the filmmaking voices that make the UK a world power in creativity.

British Animated Short Film Award (12A)

Join us for journey into the heart of contemporary British animation and experience a unique cinematic showcase. From charming tales to thought-provoking narratives, immerse yourself in the creativity and innovation of British animators and discover the filmmaking voices that make the UK a world power in creativity.

British Animated Short Film Award (12A)

Join us for journey into the heart of contemporary British animation and experience a unique cinematic showcase. From charming tales to thought-provoking narratives, immerse yourself in the creativity and innovation of British animators and discover the filmmaking voices that make the UK a world power in creativity.

British Animated Short Film Award (Relaxed Screening) (12A)

A relaxed screening of British Animated Short Film Award screening. Join us for journey into the heart of contemporary British animation and experience a unique cinematic showcase. From charming tales to thought-provoking narratives, immerse yourself in the creativity and innovation of British animators and discover the filmmaking voices that make the UK a world power in creativity.

Bye Bear

The 80s. A run-down motel. This is where a secret club of robot friends gather regularly to live out their dreams of being something else

Cake

Dividing a cake into equal slices is no easy task, especially when all the guests are easily offended.

Chef Gustav

A proud chef is forced to fight a mischievous cat who will stop at nothing to steal the food he is cooking.

Chicken for Linda (12A)

Paulette has promised to cook chicken with peppers for her daughter Linda, even though she cannot cook at all. But how will she find a chicken on the day of a general strike?

Chicken for Linda (12A)

Paulette has promised to cook chicken with peppers for her daughter Linda, even though she cannot cook at all. But how will she find a chicken on the day of a general strike?

Chicken for Linda

Paulette has promised to cook chicken with peppers for her daughter Linda, even though she cannot cook at all. But how will she find a chicken on the day of a general strike?

Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget

Having pulled off a death-defying escape from Tweedy’s farm, Ginger has finally found her dream – a peaceful island sanctuary for the whole flock, far from the dangers of the human world

Claymation Animation Workshop

Get animated with this stop-motion animation workshop! Model your own character using plasticine, and then bring them to life using the magic of animation.

Club Quarantine

On the first day of the Covid-19 lockdown 4 friends hung out on a video chat. That chat somehow turned into a Nightly-Online-Queer-Dance-Party with over 60,000 followers from all corners of the world.

Cockpera

A short opera inspired by Aesop’s fable The Fighting Cocks and the Eagle.

Colour Blocks (Season 1, Episode 15: “Rainbow”)

The Colourblocks attempt to solve a rainbow puzzle with the help of new friends Indigo and Violet. Learn about the seven colours of the rainbow with the Colourblocks.

Coming Out

“Coming Out” is a tender stop-motion animation about identity, love, and giant monsters. Endorsed officially by Toho, the studio responsible for the iconic creature, this short brings awareness and support for LGBTQ stories into the Godzilla canon.

Crab Day

In a small coastal community, on a tiny island in the middle of the sea they celebrate Crab Day. A day where every boy must kill a crab they caught with their fathers – marking their transition from boyhood into manhood. Everything changes when one boy goes against the rules.

Croatian Animation: Contemporary (18)

Dive into the captivating world of Contemporary Croatian Animation! Celebrated internationally, Croatian animation highlights programmes across the globe and now you can see a selection of some of the very best all together. A cinematic journey awaits, unveiling the creative brilliance of Croatia.

Croatian Animation: History (18)

Embark on a mesmerising journey through the annals of Croatian Animation History. From pioneering works, artistic evolution, and cultural significance discover the Croatian contribution to global animation history.

Croatian Animation: Studio Talk: Bonobostudio

Join film director and studio representative Kata Gugić to discover how Croatian animation is produced, distributed and celebrated at Bonobostudio and take a peek behind the curtain at some of the studios biggest films as we celebrate Croatia at MAF 2023.

Crush

An ambitious thief wants to steal a precious diamond from a heavily guarded vault. On his way, he unexpectedly meets competition – a femme fatale who appeared for the same purpose.

Cycle of Change

Half of the population will go through this major natural life change but so many of us are not prepared and don’t know what to expect.

Dead Red Kite

When a bird of prey gets ran over, a teen girl’s insistence to give it a funeral ignites conflict within her family.

Deadline

The story of a brave friendship and solidarity between two senior ladies sickened by society’s disregard and disrespect.

Dede is Dead

Death of a beloved pet is a difficult thing to deal with, and even though we try to prepare for it, it always seems to come too soon.

Dewmini

Driven by her determination, guided by her intelligence, and culminating in a moment of inspiration, Dewmini develops and builds an ingenious irrigation system to grow food in the family’s garden.

Divert, Delight, Defy: Animating Trans Identities (18)

Exploring transgender identities through animation, this programme showcases and celebrates the vibrant spectrum of gender identity, the necessity of community and found family, and the urgent need for trans voices to be heard.

Divert, Delight, Defy: Animating Trans Identities (18)

Exploring transgender identities through animation, this programme showcases and celebrates the vibrant spectrum of gender identity, the necessity of community and found family, and the urgent need for trans voices to be heard.

Doggerland

A brutal coming-of-age story in the Stone Age, told through the artefacts that remain.

Don Quixote

The film portrays Don Quixote and his sidekick Sancho Panza in their adventures. The brave knight fights police officers, an entire armed military, forcing them all to make a run for it so that he may engage in a battle with his old enemy – a windmill.

Don’t forget to take medicines on time

Due to the severe air pollution, whenever it rains in summer bad moods keep popping up like mushrooms after the rain.

Downtime with Benji

Are YOU ready to take a break?

Drijf

Jeremy and Aurora are lost at sea. In the vast openness of the ocean they are cooped up together on a small tree bark. Will our castaways be able to grow while trying to make it back to shore, or will they lose a piece of themselves along the way?

Eeva

It is pouring down with rain at the funeral. There are many tears, too much wine, several woodpeckers and a handful of dreams to fill in the gaps.

Endling: Extinction is Forever

Exploring what life is like for a vixen and her cubs on an Earth left in post-apocalyptic chaos.

Fantastic Planet

This animated tale follows the relationship between the small human-like Oms and their much larger blue-skinned oppressors, the Draags, who rule the planet of Ygam.

Fantastic Planet: 50th Anniversary Screening (PG)

Join us for a 50th anniversary celebration of René Laloux’s masterpiece Fantastic Planet!

Fantastic Planet: 50th Anniversary Screening (PG)

Join us for a 50th anniversary celebration of René Laloux’s masterpiece Fantastic Planet!

Fisheye

A fishing village falls prey to a nightmare revenge from the sea.

Fleischer Funnies! (18)

Join us for a nostalgic journey into the golden age of animation. as we step back in time for a screening of Fleischer Brothers’ Cartoon Classics. Rediscover timeless characters and iconic animated shorts as we pair the past with the present, combining a cavalcade of newly restored cartoon classics followed up with a feat of wits as we pair the screening with a Cuphead gaming tournament on the big screen!

Flutter

Jerry, an awkwardly plump hummingbird, desperately tries to fit in with his siblings. But more often than not, he only weighs them down, literally.

FlyHole

In this dual projection slide show of collaged imagery, FlyHole tells the story of a housefly who transitions into a man in order to cruise gay bars. Text and images are appropriated from the March 1985 issue of the adult, gay digest magazine, Manscape.

From One Painting… To Another

An immersion in art through two paintings on the same subject created half a century apart.

From the Fest: Magic Light Pictures at 20

For two decades Magic Light Pictures have brought audiences old and young together through their enchanting animations. Adapting adored characters and stories into screen marvels. Join company co-founders Martin Pope and Michael Rose as we take a look back on 20 years through film and learn the story of the studio and how a working friendship led to one of the most successful animation production studios in British history.

From the Fest: Nimona’s Fearless Journey From Book to Screen

We welcome prolific comic book artist and animation producer ND Stevenson as we follow his personal journey of Netflix’s Nimona from sketchbook to the screen.

From the Fest: Studio Focus: Passion Pictures

Join Passion Pictures, the independent triple Academy-Award winning studio, to explore the future of the animation industry, delve into state-of-the-art techniques, and pay tribute to the remarkable artists and storytellers who form the core of our team.

From the Fest: Studio Talk: Kugali – Riding the Waves of a Changing World

Join us for an inspiring talk as we delve into the remarkable journey of Kugali. This trailblazing pan-African company defied conventional norms to make its mark in the digital landscape, achieving a groundbreaking milestone by collaboration with Disney Animation Studios to create an original animation.

From the Fest: The Making of Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget

Suzy Fagan Parr cracks open a soufflé of scintillating secrets from behind the scenes of Aardman’s latest stop frame digital kitchen – Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget. Foxes strictly prohibited.

From the Main Square

“From The Main Square” is an interactive VR experience that invites the viewer to witness the rise and fall of a divided society.

Fuar: A Counter-Memory

Exploring and highlighting the contrast between eras using printmaking.

Fur

a crush gone moldy…

Gala Screening Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget + Intro (PG)

Having pulled off a death-defying escape from Tweedy’s farm, Ginger has finally found her dream. When she and Rocky hatch a little girl called Molly, Ginger’s happy ending seems complete. But back on the mainland the whole of chicken-kind faces a new and terrible threat. For Ginger and her team, even if it means putting their own hard-won freedom at risk – this time, they’re breaking in!

Gala Screening: The Boy and the Heron (12A)

A young boy named Mahito yearning for his mother ventures into a world shared by the living and the dead.

Gayle FMK (with blackbear)

This bright and colourful dark comedy sees miniature Gayle and blackbear failing at being good neighbours in the most extravagant ways.

Good Mates and Drum n Bass

Four friends escape reality and dance the night away.

Grown Up Man

A dressing room, a mirror, here lipstick and shimmering varnish intertwine. He is determined and whatever anyone may have said to him, tonight he will be the most beautiful.

Head in the Clouds

A quirky student who daydreams with her head high in the clouds must creatively elude her strict math teacher to remain there.

Her Dress for the Final

One day my granny dyed her wedding dress black. She wanted to be buried in it.

Hey Duggee (Season 5, Episode 35: “Music Video Badge”))

The Squirrels have made a song and Duggee suggests that they can make a music video, which results in lots of collaboration, creativity and fun!

HOLE

Mo is an adult with Autism Spectrum Disorder. They spend a lot of time in their brain. Today, a
hole started following them.

Holy Fire

Holy Fire is an interactive documentary experience that explores humankind’s difficult relationship with nuclear energy.

How it Works: Film Festivals

In this informal discussion, our festival programmers will discuss the many factors that they consider when selecting and programming films. With plenty of tips to offer, pitfalls to avoid and an insight into the realities of festival programming.

Human Resources

Andy, followed by a friend filming the scene, goes to his recycling appointment.

I Speak True Things

In 1450 a fully loaded ship departed from Tsalal harbour and continued westward in search of an island believed to be somewhere far off the coast, but to no avail. Two other ships sailing out the following year in search of the same island came to a similar destiny.

I’m Leaving

As the night comes, the journey begins. Running rushing, racing.

IEA Character Design Roundtable

Candid conversations about the art and craft of industry are had with our Industry Excellence Roundtable. In this session join Character Design as they discuss their process and experience.

IEA Storyboarding Roundtable

Candid conversations about the art and craft of industry are had with our Industry Excellence Roundtable. In this session join Storyboard artists as they discuss their process and experience.

IEA Workshop: Character Design

In this 2 hour workshop Glen Southern (SouthernGFX) will give you some of the main pointers for designing creatures for your project whether that is for a game, film or immersive experience.

IEA Workshop: Character Design

In this 2 hour workshop Glen Southern (SouthernGFX) will give you some of the main pointers for designing creatures for your project whether that is for a game, film or immersive experience.

IEA Workshop: Storyboarding

This collaborative workshop, run by director and story artist J.P. Vine (Ron’s Gone wrong, Inside Out) will focus on ‘directing through storyboarding’ – as well as sharing tips learned over a 20 year career.

IEA Workshop: Storyboarding (18)

This collaborative workshop, run by director and story artist J.P. Vine (Ron’s Gone wrong, Inside Out) will focus on ‘directing through storyboarding’ – as well as sharing tips learned over a 20 year career.

ILM, the Knowledge

A peasant comes to town and falls into anguish when he notices that he is different from the townspeople.

Imbued Life

Imbued Life is a film about a young woman’s connection with the life force of nature, using her talent for taxidermy to “restore” the animals to their natural habitat.

In the Frame: AI and the Future of Animation Production

Exploring practical ways which studios can take responsible steps to ensure the collective good and the artistic heart of animation is maintained.

Internet Gaga

We humans once believed that we would create a free and democratic place of endless knowledge through the internet.

Jungle Beat: Shout, Shout, Let It All Out

Frog’s croak decides to hop it and leave him speechless, literally. After sampling a number of other voices Frog decides this is not fun so tries to catch up with his runaway croak.

Kensuke’s Kingdom (PG)

A young boy who is washed up on an island in the Pacific after falling from his parents’ yacht. Struggling to survive with no food or water, he and his dog are helped by mysterious stranger.

Kensuke’s Kingdom

A young boy who is washed up on an island in the Pacific after falling from his parents’ yacht. Struggling to survive with no food or water, he and his dog are helped by mysterious stranger.

Kensuke’s Kingdom + Q&A (PG)

A young boy who is washed up on an island in the Pacific after falling from his parents’ yacht. Struggling to survive with no food or water, he and his dog are helped by mysterious stranger.

Kensuke’s Kingdom + Q&A (PG)

A young boy who is washed up on an island in the Pacific after falling from his parents’ yacht. Struggling to survive with no food or water, he and his dog are helped by mysterious stranger.

King Sausage

When Greetje’s father, butcher Tuitjes, takes on the Italian butcher Smakkerelli, the formerly rustic village of Moppel is turned upside down.

Kizazi Moto: Stardust

An outcast stable girl demands an elite destiny scroll from the all-knowing Oracle.

La Perra

In Bogota, a bird-girl leaves behind the family home, her domineering mother and faithful dog to go and explore her sexuality.

Le Parc aux Cerfs

Diane, the King’s favorite courtesan is held captive in the Parc Aux Cerfs, but she only has one desire. This desire isn’t to share the king’s bed. She is desperate to escape her golden cage. One night, while the King had lowered his vigilance, she decides to escape.

Lego Stop Motion Workshop

This fun, creative and hands-on LEGO stop-motion workshop is the perfect activity to get you to discover and show off your creative talents by creating a stop-motion animation movie.

Lego Stop Motion Workshop

This fun, creative and hands-on LEGO stop-motion workshop is the perfect activity to get you to discover and show off your creative talents by creating a stop-motion animation movie.

Les lèvres gercées

In a kitchen, a mother and a child struggle to establish dialogue.

Leviathan

Jerky but smiling characters from this short film will take the audience through this animated pageant inspired by a book “Leviathan” by Thomas Hobbes, written in 1651.

Levitation

What is this force that defies gravity, a force so powerful that drives plants to reach up and imbues us with the strength to sail against the current? If we let go to its upward motion, it carries us to a wonderful ease. Raise your sail and catch the leeway…

Life with Herman H. Rott

Herman is a rat who lives alone in a messy apartment. One day a very tidy cat shows up at his doorstep. With everything she owns.

Love Me True

Laurence is desperately looking for love. Advised by a friend, she connects to online dating sites to find her soulmate. She becomes addicted to her phone and to a toxic man.

Made For Duty Overseas

A noir-ish tale centred around a packet of menthol vogue cigarettes, moving between Sri Lanka and the UK.

MAF 2023 Animated Commercial Curiosities Online (15)

A selection of the best animated music videos, interstitials, adverts, explainers and more from this year’s festival. Tune in online to see the very best creative responses that shape the world around us.

MAF 2023 Animated Mixtape Online (18)

Whether you’re an animation aficionado or this is your first experience beyond the mainstream let MAF welcome you to the world of animation with our online selection of some of the international short films playing in competition.

MAF 2023 Awards Ceremony (18)

Join our host for the evening Amy Gledhill for an evening of comedy and celebration as we hand out the coveted Manchester Animation Festival trophies crafted by master model makers Mackinnon and Saunders.

MAF 2023 British Animated Short Films Online (12A)

Join us online for a journey into the heart of contemporary British animation and experience a unique cinematic showcase. From charming tales to thought-provoking narratives, immerse yourself in the creativity and innovation of British animators and discover the filmmaking voices that make the UK a world power in creativity.

MAF 2023 New Animated Voices Online (18)

A selection of some of the best student films in competition from the Festival screening for our online delegation to enjoy.

MAF 2023 Short Film Panorama Online (15)

This selection showcases the versatility and scope of contemporary animation. A mixture of techniques, storytelling and platforms, this panorama represents the breadth of animation.

MAF Marketplace

Come one, come all down to the MAF Marketplace. The marketplace is a free place to come and meet up with companies and suppliers from the world of animation for recruitment, portfolio reviews, IP and legal advice, funding and lots more.

MAFter Dark (18)

What’s better than an evening in the pub? An evening in the pub filled with animation! Join us for a lively assembly of animated amusements and pick your winning film at MAFter Dark 2023! Free to all.

Magic Light Pictures at 20

For two decades Magic Light Pictures have brought audiences old and young together through their enchanting animations. Adapting adored characters and stories into screen marvels. Join company co-founders Martin Pope and Michael Rose as we take a look back on 20 years through film and learn the story of the studio and how a working friendship led to one of the most successful animation production studios in British history.

Magic Light Pictures on Loop! (U)

Indulge in adaptations of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture books from Magic Light Pictures at MAF this year.

Magic Light Pictures on Loop! (U)

Indulge in adaptations of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture books from Magic Light Pictures at MAF this year.

Magic Light Pictures on Loop! (U)

Indulge in adaptations of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture books from Magic Light Pictures at MAF this year.

Making of: Mixmups

Join the team behind Mixmups as we explore the core values of the series, which boasts a disabled-led production team to create adventures with playful positive representation, all brought to life by the skilful team at Mackinnon and Saunders.

Making of: Walt Disney Animation Studios’ WISH

We are delighted to be joined by producer Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster Jones to discover some of the behind-the-scenes magic from the production of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ WISH.

Mars Express (15)

A private detective and her android partner are hired to track down a notorious hacker. On Mars, they descend deep into the underbelly of the planet’s capital city where they uncover a darker story that threatens to change the face of the universe.

Mars Express (15)

A private detective and her android partner are hired to track down a notorious hacker. On Mars, they descend deep into the underbelly of the planet’s capital city where they uncover a darker story that threatens to change the face of the universe.

Mars Express (15)

A private detective and her android partner are hired to track down a notorious hacker. On Mars, they descend deep into the underbelly of the planet’s capital city where they uncover a darker story that threatens to change the face of the universe.

Mars Express

A private detective and her android partner are hired to track down a notorious hacker. On Mars, they descend deep into the underbelly of the planet’s capital city where they uncover a darker story that threatens to change the face of the universe.

Masterclass: How ILM’s animators breathed life into the toys of Netflix’s ‘Lost Ollie’

We will be taking a small dive into the history of how Lost Ollie went from a successful children’s illustrated book to an emotional performance driven animated live action series on Netflix.

Maurice’s Bar

In 1942, on a train to nowhere, a former drag queen remembers a night from her past in one of Paris’ first queer bars.

Meet the Puppets: Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget

Crafted by Aardman and screening on Netflix, this is your chance to see the cast of Chicken Run: Dawn of the nugget in person and pose your questions to Suzy Fagan Parr in this unique meet and greet opportunity.

Mom is Always Right

Mirek has a huge belly and nobody knows why.

Monster Loving Maniacs (Season 1, Episode 5: “The Glarbergastling”)

Arthur and the kids embark on their first mission together.

Mum’s Spaghetti

Poppy (14) and her best friend Snoop (dog), spend their days writing rhymes and fantasising about becoming the world’s greatest rap duo. But when Poppy reinvents herself as a rude battle-rapper her new, hardcore persona gets her mad respect at a cost.

My Name Is Edgar and I Have a Cow

Edgar’s ordinary life is disrupted by a newborn calf he sees on a tourist trip to a slaughterhouse.

National Defence

The war propaganda film “National Defence” portrayed Mish-Mish, a playful patriotic soldier, fighting against the Nazi military occupation of Egypt.

New Animated Voices (18)

MAF proudly presents a chorus of new voices entering the world of animation, our showcase of student excellence screens short films that convey raw and powerful talent debuting here at the festival that have been crafted in the academic environment.

New Animated Voices (18)

MAF proudly presents a chorus of new voices entering the world of animation, our showcase of student excellence screens short films that convey raw and powerful talent debuting here at the festival that have been crafted in the academic environment.

New Animated Voices (18)

MAF proudly presents a chorus of new voices entering the world of animation, our showcase of student excellence screens short films that convey raw and powerful talent debuting here at the festival that have been crafted in the academic environment.

New Animated Voices (Relaxed Screening) (18)

A relaxed screening of New Animated Voices. MAF proudly presents a chorus of new voices entering the world of animation, our showcase of student excellence screens short films that convey raw and powerful talent debuting here at the festival that have been crafted in the academic environment.

Nimona’s Fearless Journey From Book to Screen

We welcome prolific comic book artist and animation producer ND Stevenson as we follow his personal journey of Netflix’s Nimona from sketchbook to the screen.

Ninety-Five Senses

An ode to the body’s five senses delivered by a man with little time left to enjoy them.

Ninja Express (Season 1, Episode 1: “Vikings Beats”)

A Viking Captain summons the Ninjas to find him a steady beat to get his oarsmen moving in time and outrun his rival, Captain Bullyson.

Northwestivus

Festivus, the lively London-based animation networking event, is once again heading up the M6 to gather the great animation clans of the north for Northwestivus. Join animators and animation fans for a chance to laugh, cry, network, gossip, mingle, commune and drink proper northern beer until last orders at the bar!

Offerlamm

A sheep writes a letter to his sister whilst being prepared for a ritual.

Online Divert, Delight, Defy Film Directors Q&A

We chat online to the directors of some of the films screening in our Divert, Delight, Defy: Animating Trans Identities programme, who couldn’t make it to the festival in person!

Opening Night Drinks (18)

We invite all of the filmmakers, partners and sponsors involved with this years festival to toast our 2023 edition with complimentary drinks and networking courtesy of our friends at Magic Light Pictures.

Our Uniform

An Iranian girl unfolds her school memories through the wrinkles and fabrics of her old uniform.

Peeping Mom

At fifty years old, Eli takes care of his mother. Intrusive and lustful, the old lady is nostalgic about her wild youth, sex is an obsession for her.

Perfect City: The Bravest Kid

Chased by his nightmare knife hand, the paper boy has to confront his real fear which supposed to be his hope.

Peter and The Wolf

An animated rendition of the beloved classic tale “Peter and the Wolf” featuring music and narration by Gavin Friday, and artwork based on original illustrations by Bono.

Photo That Came to Life

It is Peter’s first summer in the countryside! All seems to be going well until the innkeeper’s dead grandfather tries to eat him.

Pipes

Bob the plumber is hired to fix a broken pipe & lands to his surprise in a gay fetish club.

Pitching Surgeries

Join us for an opportunity to pitch a project in development and get feedback on how you present your ideas.

Plastisapiens

What is the future of human identity? Plastisapiens takes you on a soothing and playful virtual reality journey where organic beings and plastic become one.

Populous feat. M¥SS KETA & Kenjii – HOUSE OF KETA

Music video for HOUSE OF KETA, a song born the day after Pride 2019 in Miland and the result of a collaboration between Populous and several other creatives. The music video was created during lockdown and inspired by voguing choreography.

Portfolio Reviews

Professionals from across industry are coming to MAF in order to seek out talent. Book an appointment at our portfolio review session to meet with people who can give feedback, recruit or advise.

Appointments for the reviews to be booked ahead of Industry Day – it is recommended that your portfolio is up to date and can be shown in the time allotted.

Potato Falls

Prepare to be dazzled by the most boring vegetable in the world.

Professor Balthazar – Lighthouse Keeping

Professor Balthazar goes on vacation to the South Sea where his friend Hannibal is a lighthouse keeper. Hannibal loves ice cream, difficult enough to find there. His request for transfer is denied until he can arrange a replacement: Johan the yodeler from the Alps.

Récit De Soi

While non-binary representations are rare, Lou talks
about their relationship to gender, clothes, and other markers.

Record. Play. Stop.

A lone probe collects music amongst the infinite fields of sounds, in a quest to find its place among the stars.

Rising Above

Animated documentary based on the real-life account provided by a survivor of sexually motivated violent assault and her journey of recovery as she comes to terms with the trauma.

Rocket Journey

Prepare for an absolute blast!

Room on the Boom

A half hour animated film based on the wonderful children’s picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. ROOM ON THE BROOM is a magical tale about friendship and family from Magic Light Pictures, the producers of the hugely successful The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child.

Rosemary A.D. (After Dad)

As he cradles his newborn, a father wonders if his daughter would be better off without him.

Save the Children: Home

In a completely purple world, inhabited solely by triangular purple characters, a small orange circle arrives at school and immediately feels out of place.

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off – Special Preview Screening (15)

Scott Pilgrim meets the girl of his dreams, Ramona Flowers, but learns he must defeat her seven evil exes in order to date her. Then things get even more complicated. Based on the graphic novels by Bryan Lee O’Malley.

ScreenSkills Breakfast

Kickstart your Animation Nation Forum day with a free breakfast, courtesy of ScreenSkills, and hear how their exciting new group of animation trainees can help with UK animation productions.

Shackle

Three archetypal woodland spirits explore the conflicting human drives of creativity, possessiveness and our desire for status.

Shadow of the Butterflies

In a mysterious forest, a woman is slowly lured into a nostalgic daydream as she observes butterflies.

She’s My Best Friend (and I Hate Her)

The complexity of an ancient friendship is dissected to hilarious and recognisable effect as old friends Milly and June wait impatiently for each other outside a coffee shop.

Short Film Directors Q&A

Meet the directors and ask them questions about some of your favourite animated short films screening in competition at this years festival.

Short Film Directors Q&A

Meet the directors and ask them questions about some of your favourite animated short films screening in competition at this years festival.

Short Film Directors Q&A

Meet the directors and ask them questions about some of your favourite animated short films screening in competition at this years festival.

Short Film Panorama: Part 1 (15)

This selection showcases the versatility and scope of contemporary animation. A mixture of techniques, storytelling and platforms, this panorama represents the breadth of animation.

Short Film Panorama: Part 1 (15)

This selection showcases the versatility and scope of contemporary animation. A mixture of techniques, storytelling and platforms, this panorama represents the breadth of animation.

Short Film Panorama: Part 2 (15)

This selection showcases the versatility and scope of contemporary animation. A mixture of techniques, storytelling and platforms, this panorama represents the breadth of animation.

Short Film Panorama: Part 2 (15)

This selection showcases the versatility and scope of contemporary animation. A mixture of techniques, storytelling and platforms, this panorama represents the breadth of animation.

Short Films for Children (PG)

Bring the whole family to our enchanting screening of animated short films made for children from across the world. Delight in colorful adventures, heartwarming tales, and imaginative worlds – cinematic treat for all ages.

Short Films for Children (PG)

Bring the whole family to our enchanting screening of animated short films made for children from across the world. Delight in colorful adventures, heartwarming tales, and imaginative worlds – cinematic treat for all ages.

Short Films for Children (Relaxed Screening) (PG)

A relaxed screening of Short Films for Children. Bring the whole family to our enchanting screening of animated short films made for children from across the world. Delight in colorful adventures, heartwarming tales, and imaginative worlds – cinematic treat for all ages.

Short Insights: The place of animated shorts in industry

Shining a bright spotlight on the independent short film environment in the UK.

SISTER

Hand-drawn animation. A personal expression from a period of disorientation: the euphoria experienced when connecting with myself and/or a lover, & the dysphoria experienced when searching for both.

Skwigly Quiz

Join Steve Henderson and Ben Mitchell from Skwigly Online Animation Magazine and the Skwigly Animation Podcast as they invite you to test your animation knowledge and pit your wits against fellow festival goers in a fiendishly fun Animation Quiz.

Skwigly Screening (18)

Skwigly Online Animation Magazine is proud to present a selection of films from its animation community in association with this year’s edition of MAF. Skwigly has fast become one of the UK’s leading resources for all things animation, with a community made up of filmmakers the world over. The screening will feature a selection of innovative and exceptional animated shorts hand-picked by the Skwigly team.

Snif & Snüf

Two characters discover an interesting new object, and learn about what it means to share.

Soaked In

At a humid and warm place, I existed.
The whitewashed “gender selection” takes place in two different spaces, where satisfaction and despair mingles.

State of the Animation Nation

Presenting the State of the Animation Nation roundtable discussion. A session where industry leaders paint a contemporary picture of the animation industry by answering a wide range of hard hitting questions as we reflect on the challenges and triumphs that the industry has been subject to and what may lay ahead.

Stick Man

A half hour animated film based on the much-loved children’s picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo. STICK MAN tells the tale of a happy go lucky father’s epic journey to make it home in time for Christmas. From Magic Light Pictures, producers of the hugely successful The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo’s Child and Room on the Broom films.

Student Film Panorama (12A)

This selection showcases the versatility and scope of contemporary animation from students around the world. A mixture of techniques, storytelling and platforms, this panorama represents the breadth of animation from an academic environment.

Student Film Panorama (12A)

This selection showcases the versatility and scope of contemporary animation from students around the world. A mixture of techniques, storytelling and platforms, this panorama represents the breadth of animation from an academic environment.

Studio Focus: Passion Pictures

Join Passion Pictures, the independent triple Academy-Award winning studio, to explore the future of the animation industry, delve into state-of-the-art techniques, and pay tribute to the remarkable artists and storytellers who form the core of our team.

Studio Talk: Kugali – Riding the Waves of a Changing World

Join us for an inspiring talk as we delve into the remarkable journey of Kugali. This trailblazing pan-African company defied conventional norms to make its mark in the digital landscape, achieving a groundbreaking milestone by collaboration with Disney Animation Studios to create an original animation.

Substitute

Simple story about the man who comes to the beach and uses inflatable objects for all of his needs.

Such miracles do happen

One day, all the statues in the area come to life. They leave the roadside shrines and pedestals and calmly set off straight ahead, all in the same direction.

Supertato (Season 1, Episode 15: “Super Birthday”)

Supertato is delighted when Evil Pea comes to his birthday party, but Carrot is suspicious. Soon Evil Pea unleashes the Mini Peas, who try to steal Supertato’s birthday present.

Superworm

Superworm is a wonderfully unlikely comic hero. He’s a long, strong worm with amazing skills and a big heart who keeps on saving the day.

Butterfly has been Superworm’s best friends since he was small, and she was a caterpillar. They love helping the other garden animals: they save the baby toad from a major road, they entertain bored bees, rescue a beetle. It seems there’s no end to Superworm’s skills but he begins to get a bit too full of himself and he starts to ignore his friend.

When the evil Wizard Lizard hears of Superworm’s powers he sends his servant, Crow, to kidnap him. Then he forces Superworm to burrow underground looking for treasure. Butterfly hatches a plan with the other garden creatures to save Superworm, trapping Wizard Lizard and dumping him on the rubbish heap!

All of the animals celebrate Superworm’s return and Butterfly forgives Superworm for his big headedness. The pair are reunited as friends.

Sweet Like Lemons

Sweet Like Lemons is a visual reflection on getting out of a harmful relationship and moving on.

Tadpole

It’s a day like any other. How do you break the cycle?

Thatchers Cider: Pint Sized Perfection

Pint-Sized Perfection brings you through the gates of Thatcher’s very own Myrtle Farm.

The AfterMAF

MAF isn’t over yet, come join us to send off the festival in style. You’re all invited for drinks, karaoke and celebration at the AfterMAF!

The Animation Keynote 2023

Join Orion Ross, Vice President, International Animation, Disney Branded Television at The Walt Disney Company as he discusses the evolving opportunities for the UK’s rich and unique ecosystem of animation creators, writers, artists, studios and producers to play a leading role in making new global hits.

The Art of the Music Video (18)

Toe tapping beats and eye popping visuals go together so nicely! The music video is a perfect place to merge the power of music with the creativity of animated filmmaking. Discover the artistry and innovation behind Animated Music Videos in this enlightening panel discussion and join us for a harmonious journey into this dynamic genre.

The Beatles: I’m Only Sleeping

Enter John Lennon’s stream of consciousness as he dips and surfaces in his sleep.

The Boy and the Heron

A young boy named Mahito yearning for his mother ventures into a world shared by the living and the dead. There, death comes to an end, and life finds a new beginning. A semi-autobiographical fantasy about life, death and creation, in tribute to friendship, from the mind of Hayao Miyazaki.

The Cactus

A man, troubled by a severe nervous system disease, finds himself paralyzed in a remote and hostile environment after an accident.

The Cat

Based on an old Aesop fable: a young poet is lonesome until Venus provides him with company, transforming his cat into a wonderful girl.

The Cyclists

During the final race of the cycling season, the two men in the lead are competing for more than the Grand Trophy; they are fighting for the affection of a lady and fulfilment of their erotic fantasies.

The Day I Became a Bird

A boy falls in love for the first time and chooses to spread his wings no matter what the cost.

The Egret River

Among the tall buildings of the city, the lonely guard hides a beautiful field that no one knows, and meets an egret there.

The Fell We Climb

Hamira must find her voice and courage in the hope to create an anti-racist future for all.

The Garden of Heart

An young aspiring painter is in his last round of interviews at the painting department of the Academy of Fine Arts. While waiting for his interview, his demons appear to him in the form of garden pests.

The Gruffalo

A half hour animated film based on the classic picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. A magical tale of a mouse who takes a stroll though the woods. Encountering three predators who all wish to eat him – a fox, an owl and a snake – the plucky mouse has to use his wits to survive.

The Gruffalo’s Child

A half hour animated film based on the classic children’s picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, The Gruffalo’s Child tells the delightful tale of a little Gruffalo who ignores her father’s warnings and tiptoes out into the snow in search of the Big Bad Mouse.

The Highway Rat

A half hour family animated film based on the much-loved children’s book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. THE HIGHWAY RAT tells the swashbuckling tale of a greedy rat who craves buns and biscuits, but comes to a sticky end. From Magic Light Pictures, producers of the hugely successful The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo’s Child, Room on the Broom and Stick Man.

The Inspector Returns Home

An inspector walks the streets of the town, carefully trying to avoid danger. At home, he sees a fingerprint trying to run away and pursues it.

The Knowledge Exchange – Eco Talk

A hands on opportunity to learn from industry leaders and give your own input on eco-conscious practices, renewable resources, and ethical production. Empower your studio to create a greener, more sustainable future for animation.

The Lords of Water

Featuring an iconic soundtrack and voice over from legendary actor Matt Berry, the film takes a novel approach to water marketing, leaving you thirsting for more!

The Making of Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget

Suzy Fagan Parr cracks open a soufflé of scintillating secrets from behind the scenes of Aardman’s latest stop frame digital kitchen – Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget. Foxes strictly prohibited.

The Miracle

40-year old Irma goes on a vacation to an all-inclusive resort. Soon after her arrival she realizes the place is meant for young families. Irma has to find her own place in this holiday paradise

The Monster

Meet an unlikely pair of puppet heroes inspiring conscious consumption.

The Mystery of Missing Socks

Little Pille goes to find her father’s missing socks under the bed, to a fantastical world of forgotten things.

The Nectar Instead

A young fly gets trapped in the fly trap in the stop-motion studio only to have the existential realization that it spent its entire life chasing after the wrong thing.

The Nectar Instead

A young fly gets trapped in the fly trap in the stop-motion studio only to have the existential realization that it spent its entire life chasing after the wrong thing.

The Nomadic Tomb

We enter the world from the womb with empty hands, and depart with nothing but our tomb.

The Path

A young migrant, forced to leave her home, desperately searches for her family.

The Peasants

Witness the tragic story of a peasant girl forced to marry a much olderman, despite her love for his son. The object of envy and hate of the villagers she has to fight to preserve her independence.

The Peasants (18)

Witness the tragic story of a peasant girl forced to marry a much olderman, despite her love for his son. The object of envy and hate of the villagers she has to fight to preserve her independence.

The Peasants + Pre-Recorded Intro (18)

Witness the tragic story of a peasant girl forced to marry a much olderman, despite her love for his son. The object of envy and hate of the villagers she has to fight to preserve her independence.

The Purple Season

On the edge of a mangrove, a group of girls lives to the rhythm of the climate and the wild geese around them.

The Pyramid

An ancient Egyptian attempt to build an inverted pyramid.

The Sketch

Arriving in Paris, I start learning two languages, French and drawing. In an artist’s studio, I meet Linda Demorrir, a live
model. Like me, she is transgender and an immigrant. As I draft her outlines, it is also myself that I learn to draw.

The Smeds and the Smoos

On a faraway planet, two aliens, Janet and Bill, meet in the Wurpular Wood and become friends. The families, the red Smeds and the blue Smoos, are dismayed at the match. “Never, never play with a Smed!” exclaims Grandmother Smoo, while Janet’s Grandfather Smed says the Smoos are “a beastly bunch!”.

Grandmother and Grandfather have to learn to overcome their differences though, when Janet and Bill run off in Grandfather’s red rocket. The Smeds and The Smoos travel through space together on their search for Janet and Bill. As the two families are starting to lose hope and head back to their home planet, they spot the runaway pair down below in the Wurpular Wood. But they’re in for a surprise when Bill and Janet announce their tiny baby Smoo-Smed, who is purple from head to toe.

The Snail and the Whale

A half hour family film based on the much loved picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

Join the snail on the tail of a great big grey-blue humpback whale on her journey around the globe. In the unlikely friendship between an ambitious sea snail and a humpback whale, discover the power of the sea and the perils of swimming too close to the shore… Can the snail save the whale when he is beached in a secluded bay?

A Christmas viewing treat for all the family from four-time Oscar-nominated producers Magic Light Pictures.

The Wide Eyed Girl and the Long Legged Boy

This is a love story full of encounters and mismatches.

The Woman Who Married Three Men

In this African folktale, a woman asserts her right to choose her husbands.

Théâtre du Passage

Many different characters enter the premises for an exciting evening at the theatre.

These are the Shows!

A window into the world of Taiwanese dramas.

This is Sh*t

In just three words, ‘This is Sh*t’ summarise the outrage felt by communities across the nation about river pollution

This is Sh*t

In just three words, ‘This is Sh*t’ summarise the outrage felt by communities across the nation about river pollution

Tomato Kitchen

An accident interrupted Lee’s dinner with his colleagues. The dark truth of the Tomato Kitchen along with Lee’s hidden past were revealed by this unexpected incident…

Toto’s Journey

Water is a commodity not to be wasted in Africa . See what Toto goes through to fetch a pot of water!

Town Hall Square

Bernard works behind the windows of a ticket booth at the Town Hall Square subway station. One day a little tiger shows up and turns Bernard’s orderly life upside down.

Town Hall Square

Bernard works behind the windows of a ticket booth at the Town Hall Square subway station. One day a little tiger shows up and turns Bernard’s orderly life upside down.

Tup Tup

A man is trying to sleep but noises keep him up. Trying to stop the noise he reveals a bizarre mixture of sounds and images.

Two One Two

A love letter to motherhood, parenting on the spectrum, and two headed monsters everywhere.

Vicious Cycle

An experimental documentary animation exploring a mother and daughters relationship and how generational trauma created a vicious cycle across three generations.

Visible Mending

A short animated documentary about love, death, and knitting.

Wallace & Gromit in The Grand Getaway

Holidays are in the offing for Wallace and Gromit. Sun, sand, and the chance to test out their latest contraption, Auto-Caddy. But Wallace has his dates mixed up – they have to be on the other side of the country in just half an hour! There’s only one thing for it… they’ll take the Rocket!

Whatever Moves Is Alive

While slugs wander across the kitchen floor, Noémie draws up her self-portrait, shifting and fragmented, on the edge between the intimate and the hubbub of the world.

White Plastic Sky (15)

Set in the year 2123, this dystopian drama sees humanity faced with diminishing resources as a husband sets out on an adventurous journey to save the life of his beloved wife at all costs.

White Plastic Sky

Set in the year 2123, this dystopian drama sees humanity faced with diminishing resources as a husband sets out on an adventurous journey to save the life of his beloved wife at all costs.

White Plastic Sky + Q&A (15)

Set in the year 2123, this dystopian drama sees humanity faced with diminishing resources as a husband sets out on an adventurous journey to save the life of his beloved wife at all costs.

Why are Cockroaches so hard to kill?

Dig into the genetic adaptations of cockroaches, and find out what makes it so hard to kill them in this animated TED-Ed lesson.

Wild Summon

A natural history fantasy film following the dramatic life cycle of the Salmon, from the river to sea and back, portraying the fish in human form.

Will Flowers?

A late night message from their kokum causes Kay to envision the generative impact they can have in the world as a trans person.

Workshop: Animation Directing (PG)

MAF Workshops allow experts to deliver intimate workshops to small groups of people, focusing on specialist subjects and giving insider information and top tips from those at the top of their game!

Workshop: Animation Directing (PG)

MAF Workshops allow experts to deliver intimate workshops to small groups of people, focusing on specialist subjects and giving insider information and top tips from those at the top of their game!

World To Roam

Mother and Father lay the child in his cot at the same time every night. However, come morning, only a shallow crater remains; a baby-shaped depression. The boy was destined to be a wanderer.

Young Animator of the Year Awards 2023 (PG)

Young Animator of the Year UK is here to help, share and celebrate all of the work that talented young animators are making across the country. This year submissions came in from all over, and MAF are very excited to be hosting this year’s awards ceremony where our audiences will meet the super talented winners for 2023!

Zog

A half hour family film based on the much loved picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

ZOG is the story of a keen young dragon who wants to learn how to fly, roar, and breathe fire in his first years at Dragon School. He’s desperate to impress his teacher and win a golden star, but he’s accident prone and each year he has to be helped by a kind young girl who patches up his bumps and bruises. Then in Year Four, he has to capture a princess – can the young girl help him with his trickiest challenge yet?

A Christmas viewing treat for all the family from four-time Oscar-nominated producers Magic Light Pictures.

Zog and the Flying Doctors

A comedy adventure from Magic Light Pictures. Princess Pearl, Sir Gadabout and Zog the dragon make a most unlikely flying doctor team who are committed to treating all kinds of creatures, real and mythical, including a sunburnt mermaid, a unicorn with an extra horn and a lion with the flu.

One day, the trio accidentally fly into a storm. It’s hard flying and Gadabout and Zog are tired and miserable, so when Pearl spots her uncle’s castle they decide to fly down to take shelter. But the King isn’t happy to see that Pearl has discarded her pretty dresses and is now a doctor, so he captures her and holds her locked in the castle. Zog and Gadabout try all sorts of ways to get her out, but their efforts are in vain.

Just as Pearl sees a way to escape she discovers that her uncle has become extremely sick and surprisingly orange, and she makes the brave decision to stay and find a way to treat him. With Zog and Gadabout’s help (and a clue from a poorly dove) she finds a cure which needs ingredients from their friends the lion, unicorn and mermaid, which Zog and Gadabout fly off to get.

After some gentle persuasion, Pearl convinces the King to take the medicine, and soon he is dancing with delight. He finally admits that Princesses can be doctors. A final grand goodbye sets the trio on their way once more, and Zog and the Flying Doctors speed away into the sunset.