The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore
dir. Brandon Oldenburg, William Joyce · 2012
Stories have the power to heal and enrich our lives, connecting us to our humanity.
A visually enchanting homage to the transformative power of stories, "The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore" invites viewers into a whimsical world where literature heals and inspires. This short film is a celebration of creativity, nostalgia, and the enduring magic of books.
Inspired, in equal measures, by Hurricane Katrina, Buster Keaton, The Wizard of Oz, and a love for books, The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is a poignant, humorous allegory about the curative powers of story. Using a variety of techniques (miniatures, computer animation, 2D animation) award winning author/ illustrator William Joyce and Co-director Brandon Oldenburg present a hybrid style of animation that harkens back to silent films and MGM Technicolor musicals. Morris Lessmore is old fashioned and cutting edge at the same time.
Talking points
- the role of storytelling in healing
- the evolution of animation techniques
- the impact of natural disasters on art
- the significance of books in personal growth
