We’re starting off the short film showcase this year with a trio of fantastic animated films.
The Hill Farm (1986, directed by Mark Baker)
Mark Baker is the creator of Peppa Pig, but before that he made some fantastic animated shorts that played at festivals. This one tells of a few days in the life of a farmer and the visitors who come to their farm.
The Pied Piper of Hamlin (1980, directed by Mark Hall & Brian Cosgrove)
I’ve always felt the Pied Piper story is a horror tale and this short film definitely helps with the creep factor. It’s most definitely a product of its time with the electronic score. I originally saw this as a segment on the fantastic PBS series Long Ago and Far Away, a showcase for European animated shorts.
The Man Who Planted Trees (1987, directed by Frédéric Back)
This short reminds me of The Snowman with its particular style. This Canadian film won an Oscar and played at Cannes. It’s considered one of the greatest animated cartoons of all time.
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