“Wander to Wonder,” the charming short film by Nina Gantz.
Released in 2023, this 14-minute stop-motion gem has been turning heads, snagging a BAFTA for Best British Short Animation and even an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Short Film.
Set in the nostalgic vibe of a 1980s children’s TV show, the film introduces us to three endearing characters: Mary, Billybud, and Fumbleton. These little figures once flourished under the guidance of their creator, Uncle Gilly. But when he unexpectedly passes away, they’re left to navigate a lonely existence in the empty studio. With their costumes falling apart and food becoming scarce, the trio continues to push through, producing surreal episodes to keep their connection with the audience alive.
What strikes me about “Wander to Wonder” is its in-depth exploration of themes of grief and resilience. Mary tries to keep the show’s spirit alive by watching old episodes and reading fan letters. At the same time, Fumbleton seeks refuge in Shakespearean monologues, while Billybud, the silent yet expressive one, uses juggling as his coping mechanism. Their vibrant world crumbles around them, echoing the turmoil within.
The journey of creating this film began back in 2015, right after Gantz graduated from the National Film and Television School. She had already made a name for herself with the BAFTA-winning short “Edmond.” Bringing “Wander to Wonder” to life was no small feat—it took eight years and collaboration with Simon Cartwright to craft a narrative that balances humor with an emotional punch. The project required financial backing from four countries: the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and the UK, which only adds to the intricacy of the undertaking.
The technical mastery behind “Wander to Wonder” is truly impressive. The characters might be small, but they’re filled with emotion. Animating these tiny puppets is no easy task. For example, the scene where a character appears trapped inside a pickle jar is executed with cleverness. The illusion was created by strategically placing the puppet behind a real jar to achieve a believable effect without any high-tech visual effects.
Gantz’s own experiences with loss heavily influenced the film’s emotional weight. While she was writing the script, she was dealing with the passing of a loved one, which lent authenticity to the characters. Each one represents different aspects of grief: Mary’s denial, Fumbleton’s escapism, and Billybud’s emotional detachment. This connection invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences with loss.
Since its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, “Wander to Wonder” has struck a chord with both critics and moviegoers. Its unique blend of dark humor and heartfelt storytelling has garnered numerous accolades.
Nina Gantz is a rising star in the animation industry. It’s exciting to think about where her creativity will take her next.
In sum, “Wander to Wonder” is a poignant look at human emotions, exploring grief and the power of creativity. Gantz’s dedication and depth shine through in this work.
Check the artist’s website and social media
https://www.ninagantz.com / https://www.instagram.com/ninagantz
