Starling (film)
2023 American animated short film
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Starling is a 2023 animated short film about grief and loss[1] directed by Mitra Shahidi.[2] The short premiered at the Tribeca Festival,[3] where it won an award for Best Animated Short.[4] Starling has since been selected for screening in various international film festivals including the HollyShorts Film Festival, the Pixelatl Festival and the Richmond International Film Festival.[5]
company
| Starling | |
|---|---|
| |
| Directed by | Mitra Shahidi |
| Written by | Mitra Shahidi |
| Produced by | Jessica Heidt |
Production company | Mona Productions |
Release date |
|
Running time | 9 minutes |
| Country | United States |
Plot
The spirit star of a little girl travels through the sky to celebrate her birthday with her family,[6] who is mourning her, but is blown off course and must travel through Istanbul to reach her home. Whilst exploring the sounds & smells of city, she realises that she is losing her life force, and must act quickly. Finally at her house, with very little force left, she is faced with an impossible decision.[7]
Production
Starling was made over the course of 4 years with a crew that spanned 14 countries, including Turkey, Spain, the United Kingdom, India, Brazil and France. It was produced through Pixar Animation's co-op program,[8] which allows employees to use company equipment for personal projects.[2][9] Primarily animated using traditional 2D techniques, Starling also used Blender to create and animate specific 3D elements.
Release
Starling had its world premiere at the Tribeca Festival on June 10, 2023.[3][4]
Reception
Since its release, the film has been selected in various festivals around the world:
| Year | Festivals | Award/Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Tribeca Festival | Best Animated Short[4] | Won |
| Holly Shorts Film Festival | Best Animation[10] | Nominated | |
| Mill Valley Film Festival | Best Short Film[11] | Nominated | |
| Hamptons International Film Festival | Best Short Film[12] | Nominated | |
| Austin Film Festival | Best Animated Short[13] | Nominated | |
| Best Animated Short (Audience Award)[14] | Won | ||
| AFI Fest | Best Short Film[15] | Nominated |