Two Balloons

Two Balloons capped off the 2019 Rochester International Film Festival where it was very warmly received. This touching and engaging love story of two lemurs traveling great lengths to come together is told without the use of dialogue. The simple but engaging music and crisp animation tell the story effectively on their own. I was mesmerized from beginning to end.

An enchanting, delightful animated short reminiscent of Wes Anderson but more romantic. The visuals are absolutely gorgeous, and I hope Mark Smith gets an opportunity to develop a feature animated film in the same vein.

TWO BALLOONS was one of the absolute highlights of the Providence Children's Film Festival. Animation is a labor of love and it's no more evident then when watching this film. The film score perfectly complements the narrative of two lemurs who apparently have met and departed before sharing their true feelings for one another. The attention to detail in each scene is truly amazing. Also noteworthy were the use of uniquely designed dirigibles... and the flip-book animation within this animation. Our audiences could watch this film again and again and again.

Two Balloons is impossible not to love. It's truly a feast for the senses. We were lucky enough to screen it at the 2019 edition of the Bushwick Film Festival and had the good sense to place it as the closing film in a "space" themed shorts block. Every choice made by it's director, Mark C. Smith, is a perfect one (not something you can say about many films or directors). Highly recommended.

This is a sweet, beautifully animated, charmingly wonderful, imaginative film. All the elements blend seamlessly together: art direction, lighting, animation and music. It's not a stretch to say that, for those who view it, it would be the best 9 minutes of their day. Bravo to director Mark Smith and his team! Looking forward to seeing more of your creativity in the future!