Movie spotlight
In this Oscar-winning short film, Norman McLaren employs the principles normally used to put drawings or puppets into motion to animate live actors. The story is a parable about two people who come to blows over the possession of a flower.
Two neighbors engage in a escalating battle over a fence and flower that crosses the property line. Their dispute escalates from petty squabbles to a full-blown, destructive conflict. Ultimately, their fight results in the complete annihilation of their homes and possessions, leaving them with nothing.
Norman McLaren's "Neighbours" is widely acclaimed as a masterpiece of animated filmmaking, lauded for its innovative techniques and powerful anti-war message. It has been recognized by critics and audiences alike for its enduring relevance and artistic brilliance.
A universally understood and timeless story about conflict.
Remarkably inventive use of pixilation and stop-motion.
A powerful, albeit bleak, commentary on human nature and war.
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Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film (1954), Grand Prix at the Venice Film Festival (1953)
The entire film was shot using a technique called pixilation, where live actors are photographed frame by frame, giving them a jerky, stop-motion effect. The actors, Norman McLaren and Grant Munro, performed all the actions themselves.
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