Pixar is releasing another Toy Story sequel this year. Oh, the joy. Don’t get me wrong; I enjoyed the first one immensely and the second one wasn’t too bad either, but I can’t help but feel repeated sequels (and yes, I’m looking at you, Shrek) are the animation equivalent of fossil fuels – Straining to get any more out of them and over-charging us for the privilege.
This is why it’s so very pleasing to come across little oddities such as Alma. Spanish-born Rodrigo Blaas is the genius behind this short film (it’s only a few minutes long, but perfectly timed; trust me on this), but he had Bolhem Bouchiba, a French animator to realise his dream. And what art! I’ll be honest with you, the style and presentation pisses all over much of Pixar’s work. And Tim Burton’s. Because, quite frankly, I think TB would kill to achieve this level of childhood darkness.
Watch the whole thing here and then nip over to the film’s site fer more information and marvel at the prizes it’s won.
