The National Film Board of Canada has been a champion of creative animation for more than half a century, and this overdue tribute provides a good introduction to the scope and sophistication of Canadian animated art. A sense of humor seems to be the common denominator, and the eight short films collected here have a lower percentage of duds than other animation festivals.

Among the highlights are: Caroline Leaf's beautiful, award-winning 'Two Sisters', created directly on 70mm film stock; Christopher Hinton's manic adaptation of the folk song 'Blackfly'; Richard Condie's enigmatic but hilarious medieval romp 'The Apprentice'; and Wendy Tilby's glass painted 'Strings'. The occasional excerpts from other, earlier NFBC favorites ('Get a Job', 'The Cat Came Back', etc) should have been included in their entirety or left out altogether; the incomplete samples can be frustrating to viewers seeing them for the first time.

Animation is a form of visual storytelling that involves creating visual art and motion through the use of various techniques and technologies. In animation, images are manipulated to create the illusion of movement, bringing characters, objects, and environments to life. Animation can encompass a wide range of styles, themes, and intended audiences, making it a diverse and versatile form of storytelling.

Daveigh Chase, Rumi Hiiragi, and Mari Natsuki in Spirited Away (2001)

The comedy genre refers to a category of entertainment that aims to amuse and entertain audiences by using humor, wit, and comedic situations. Comedies are created with the primary intention of eliciting laughter and providing lighthearted enjoyment. They encompass a wide range of styles, tones, and themes, appealing to various tastes and audiences.

Will Ferrell, Angela Grillo, and Lap-Gei Cheung in Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

The National Film Board of Canada's Animation Festival

Eight animated pieces by eight artists, from the studios of the National Film Board of Canada.

The National Film Board of Canada's Animation Festival (1991)

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The National Film Board of Canada's Animation Festival

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