Winners of the 2023 Fredrikstad Animation Festival in Norway were announced this weekend at the end of the four-day event. The jury awarded the Grand Prix to The Eastern Rain, a graduate film completed by Australian-born animator Milly Yencken at the Estonian Academy of Arts in Talinn this year.
The jury statement explains, “This brave film fluidly blends its circular narrative with a powerful artistic and poetic visual language, effectively presenting something both abstract and expressionistic. In this surreal world, the wonderous, colorful brushstrokes that meet with shades of gray are supported by a meditative and equally strong soundscape — ultimately drenching us as if we ourselves are dancing in the rain.”
This year’s Fredrikstad winners also include:
Audience Award — Nun or Never! by Heta Jäälinoja
Best Nordic-Baltic Short Film — Blush – An Extraordinary Voyage by Iiti Yli-Harja
Jury statement: “Out of all the Nordic-Baltic short films, this one truly has something special. From the DIY crafty visuals, to the clever metaphor use and documentary dialog, every aspect of this film screams of authenticity. While on the surface it’s a deeply personal depiction of a charming friendship, the film also tells a bigger story concerning our society’s prejudices, and does it all in fabulous fashion.”
Best Nordic-Baltic Feature Film — Rosa and the Stone Troll by Karla Nor Holmbäck
“We are delighted to announce the winner of best animated feature at Fredrikstad Animation Festival is a heartwarming film celebrating the power of friendship and the courage to let go of one’s fears. The film with its beautiful backgrounds, transports the viewers to a magical world of wonder and imagination. The accompanying music further elevates the storytelling, immersing the audience in the emotional journey of its characters.”
Best Nordic-Baltic Student Film — Mano by Toke Madsen
“By minimalistic means, this film creates an entirely believable world in just a few minutes. Told through an intense atmosphere and impressive character design, the narrative tropes of dysfunctional families are used wisely to celebrate the resilience of brotherhood, something actually worth fighting for. If only we could have stayed with these brothers a little bit longer.”
Best Nordic-Baltic Children’s Film — The Music Factory by Alf Martin Løvvold & Cina Espejord
Special Mention — The Swineherd by Magnus Igland Møller & Peter Smith
Best Nordic-Baltic Young Audience Film — The Photo That Came to Life by Mikk Magi
Special Mention — Paddle Boat by Samppa Kukkonen
Best Nordic-Baltic Commissioned Film — Theo Myling “My Heart Is in Limbo“ by Håvard Skeide Glad
“We focused on both good story telling and technical execution (Also there’s always the wow effects to consider). The film really stood out because it used ’90s video game style to tell an emotional story with beautiful abstract visuals. A music video with a good story arc, which can be a difficult balance in music videos. A nostalgic and mysterious style that suits the sound perfectly (with a cool drive).”
Special Mention — Trolli “GOOniverse” by Renee Zhan & Lars Elllingbe
Lifetime Achievement Award — John M. Jacobsen
One of Norway’s greatest film producers has been honored with the festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award: Jacobsen (Troll Hunter, Elias the Little Rescue Boat) is being recognized for his contributions to the animation film industry, as well as his efforts to elevate the importance of visual effects in Norwegian cinema.
Learn more at animationfestival.no.
