Today, we take a look at the most recent animated short films released in 2023, highlighting the exceptional work of artists from diverse cultural backgrounds who draw inspiration from their personal experiences.
These animated short films cover the works of filmmakers who are able to delve into topics that resonate with their cultural heritage and individual identities. By combining stunning visuals, innovative storytelling, and deep emotional resonance, these films offer a glimpse into the lives and perspectives of artists from various corners of the world. Through their artistry, they shed light on the universal themes that connect us all while celebrating the richness of our differences.
These filmmakers skillfully blend personal narratives, folklore, and social commentary to craft visually stunning and thought-provoking narratives that leave a lasting impression.
Let’s explore ten of the most recent animated short films from 2023, each created by artists who draw on their unique cultural backgrounds.
Armat
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Where the Wild Jawns Are
“Where the Wild Jawns Are” is an animated short produced by South Fellini, a Philadelphia-based brand that specializes in remixing Philadelphia’s iconography into fun parodies and colorful mashups. The short follows the travails of three South Philly monsters and is full of in-jokes and loving mockery that’s become the hallmark of the South Fellini brand.
The project sprang out of an art installation that South Fellini co-founders Johnny Zito and Tony Trov did with street artist Kid Hazo during the pandemic, which featured giant cutouts of the monsters, who all sport South Fellini designs, spread out around the Navy Yard. The short was released on YouTube on April 25, 2023, and mixes new animation with footage that has appeared on South Fellini’s social media pages over the last year.
Cassini
The animated short film ‘Cassini’ is a celebration of the accomplishments of the Cassini mission to Saturn. It is a must-watch film that lasts just under 4 minutes. The film showcases the final orbits of the Cassini spacecraft at Saturn. ‘Cassini’ is a tribute to the Cassini mission and its achievements at Saturn.
Where to watch
Mr. Pete & the Iron Horse
The TOBOS
Jiggly Wiggly
“Jiggly Wiggly” is an animated short created by Eva Münnich. The short is described as a “psychedelic animation” featuring a playful character embracing the shape of their body while reminding viewers that they are a “cutie pie”. The short was recently released in July 2023 and has been featured in several online publications, including Creative Boom and Graphic Arts Today. It has also been premiered on Instagram by Greenhouse Animation, an emerging talent roster in collaboration.
Lackadaisy
To My Daughter
Coming soon: Gugu Mbatha-Raw, known for her roles in “Loki” and “Belle,” will be narrating the animated short film “To My Daughter”. The film is an adaptation of a chapter from the debut book “This Thread of Gold” by Catherine Joy White. The chapter, titled “Daughter,” is a letter written to White’s imagined daughter. Mbatha-Raw will voice the narrator who guides the audience through the film. She expressed her excitement about the project, stating that she was captivated by the poetry of White’s words and is proud to give them a voice in the animated short film.
The film aims to explore themes of joy, legacy, and mischief. It is described as an important film for the next generation of little girls. The animated short is currently in production.
Way Better
Overwatch 2: Sojourn
Overwatch 2 is teasing an upcoming animated short for the character Sojourn. Here is what we know so far.
The animated short will be released after the ongoing mini-series, Overwatch 2 Genesis. The short is expected to provide players with a deep understanding of Sojourn’s background while simultaneously setting the stage for the Null Sector invasion. The short will premiere inside the game on August 4, 2023. Overall, the Sojourn animated short is highly anticipated by fans of Overwatch 2 who are eager to learn more about the character and the game’s story.
