Fallen Leaves

A beautiful euloge of music. Three boys in forest. A lady playing at chords instrument and giving to kids his red scarf.

After years, maybe in same forest, two of them, musicians, play for ressurect the memory of their mate.

Touching, profound, seductive drawings and inspired music but, first, precious return of viewer to the colors and flavours of early ages.

The story of this animated short isn't the easiest to follow, but it offers an intriguing take on magic and conflict - though it's not entirely clear what the fight is truly over. It seems to explore themes of life and death - after death has already arrived - and the mourning of those who've passed. The film leans heavily into music, with strings and flutes creating a mystical atmosphere that heightens the sense of battling between realities and the possibility of reunion. Metamorphoses are frequent, with characters and objects appearing and disappearing like fog, and shifts between sketch-like visuals add to the surreal tone. The animation style feels very much in line with classical techniques, giving the short a timeless quality.