The Ribbon

The Ribbon is a short but deeply emotional film. Do not get fooled by the playful bright colors or the smooth animation. The Ribbon tells the story of a young girl in her own majestic kingdom. Later on we find out that this fairytale like world is her escape from her tough medical condition.

The candy visuals and the love drawn into this project are obvious. The spiritual creatures and movements bring strong Miyazaki vibes on the table. Out of the happy valley there is a strong and shocking plot twist. A very rough and emotional scene.

All this is served with the amazing score of Jonathan Galland. A bittersweet trip that just under 5 minutes delivers a lot of emotional weight. The original score helps to deliver the message in a caring way and manipulates the emotions of the viewer, sad when it is needed but also hopeful, optimistic and freed.

Amazing under-5-minute display of imagination by Polla-Ilariya Kozino (Coyote's Place, Gyronaut) and her team at Insomnia Production.

No less commendable is outstanding work of French music composer, Jonathan Galland. Let us begin by mentioning that the thematic orchestration is magnificent, very reminiscent of that heard in vibrant anime 2D work in the 1980s and 1990s, often very capable of bringing in and enhancing the color and the characters' moves throughout, as is the case in this 2D whimsical production. The musical stroke beauty is even extended into the closing credits, wherein the musical tune grows in sudden intensity, delivering to the average spectator a sensation of victory, peace and joy. Indeed, with every scene, Galland's work helps us dive to the very depths of the essence of a little girl's imaginary work. In many ways the ribbon to this neat animated treat/gift is the music behind this productions, as it ties it all up to perfection.

Back to Polla's work, and without diving into the plot, it contains all the elements to make all audiences happy and refreshed; that is, imaginary creatures, unicorns... Productions under 5 minutes must be well balanced as they need to seek the viewer's desire to want more of it, and The Ribbon brings it home for us. Would love to see more of Polla's work.

Polla-Ilariya Kozino' animated short The Ribbon is a spectacular journey for all one's senses. Smart animation blended with an intelligent story line grounded in a strong score. The film captures you from the first frame and holds you in suspended "animation" until the final credits. A sure fire hit on the global festival circuit. -Oaxaca FilmFest