‘Mila‘ Animated Short Film to Premiere in the U.S. on September 2nd
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Los Angeles, CA - Insurgence, a digital indie film studio, has secured the U.S. distribution rights for Mila, a critically acclaimed animated short film.The release is scheduled for september 2nd, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of World War II, offering a timely and resonant cinematic experience. This impactful film promises to deliver a powerful message about the enduring strength of the human spirit amidst conflict.
A Story Forged in Personal History
Mila,written and directed by Cinzia Angelini,tells the story of a young girl navigating the horrors of World War II after losing her family.Rescued by a compassionate woman,Mila finds solace and a path toward a new beginning amidst the devastation. The narrative is deeply personal for Angelini, inspired by the experiences of her own mother, who lived through the bombing of Trento, Italy, in 1943.”I wont to show the impact that conflict has on innocent civilians, and especially on their children,” Angelini stated. “Most of all, I seek to celebrate their strength, resilience, and the hope that they cling to as they fight for their very survival.”
The film’s emotional core resonates with broader themes of trauma and recovery, mirroring findings in psychological studies on the long-term effects of war on children (UNICEF, 2023). What do you think makes stories like Mila’s so universally compelling?
A Collaborative Global Effort
The production of mila was a remarkable feat of international collaboration. Spearheaded by Pixel Cartoon and ibiscusmedia, the project evolved into the largest self-reliant virtual animation studio ever assembled, uniting over 350 animation professionals from 35 countries. Andrea Emmes produced the film, while Valentina Martelli and Valerio Oss served as executive producers. Key sponsors included Aniventure, Cinesite, UNICEF Italy, Toon Boom Animation, SideFX, and Dog Head Animation.
The collaborative nature of the project highlights the power of art to transcend borders and unite individuals around a shared human experience.
Did You Know?
The production team was strategically divided into four core groups based in the U.S.A., Italy, Mexico, and the United Kingdom, facilitating seamless communication and workflow.
Accolades and Recognition
Before its U.S.debut,Mila garnered significant recognition on the international film festival circuit,accumulating over 80 nominations and awards. Notable accolades include:
| Festival | Award |
|---|---|
| St. Louis International Film Festival | Best of Fest audience Choice Awards – Online Best Narrative Short & Best Animated Short |
| Cartoons on the Bay | Best Animated Short |
| Salerno International Film Festival | Best Animated Short |
| Giffoni Film Festival | Gryphon Award – Best Short Film, Elements +10 |
| Hollywood Women’s Film institute | Best Animated Short Film & Best Short Film Director U.S. |
| ITTV Festival 2021 | Keneo Humanitarian Award |
| Via dei Corti | Dirty Dozen Award for Best Director |
| WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival | Platinum Remi Award |
These awards underscore the film’s artistic merit and its ability to connect with audiences on a profound emotional level. The film’s success also reflects a growing gratitude for animated shorts as a powerful medium for storytelling, as noted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in its ongoing efforts to promote short-form filmmaking (Academy, n.d.).
“Mila reminds us that children are the most serious victims of war, and they should never have to endure them,” said Niccolo Messina, CEO of Insurgence. “Mila may be a short film, but it is incredibly powerful with a story that is both memorable and inspiring as much as it is a warning to those holding the reins of power. As we speak, children are facing conflict in every continent across the globe, and it is vital that we bring this important animated film to the US market.”
Pro Tip:
Consider the past context when viewing Mila. understanding the realities of WWII in Italy will deepen your appreciation for the film’s emotional weight and artistic choices. What impact do you believe animated storytelling has on conveying historical events?
The enduring relevance of Mila lies in its universal themes of loss, resilience, and the search for hope in the face of adversity. The film’s release comes at a time when global conflicts continue to displace and traumatize children, making its message notably poignant. The growing popularity of animated shorts as a medium for addressing complex social issues suggests a continued demand for stories that offer both artistic beauty and meaningful commentary.
Frequently Asked Questions About ‘Mila’
- What is ‘Mila’ about? Mila is an animated short film that tells the story of a young girl’s survival and resilience during World War II.
- Who directed ‘Mila’? Cinzia Angelini wrote and directed mila.
- When will ‘Mila’ be released in the U.S.? The film will be released in the U.S. on September 2nd.
- What awards has ‘Mila’ won? Mila has received over 80 nominations and awards, including Best Animated Short at Cartoons on the bay and the platinum Remi Award at WorldFest-Houston.
- Where can I watch ‘Mila’? Mila will be available on insurgence’s digital platform.
- What inspired the creation of ‘mila’? The film was inspired by the director’s mother’s experiences during the bombing of Trento, Italy, in 1943.
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