If you don't understand the context in which this short animated film was made, you'd probably quickly dismiss it. However, this would be a huge mistake as it's super-important to the history of computer generated animation.

Back in 1987, CGI was still relatively new. Pixar had only produced three shorts by that time and they tended to be extremely simple. And, such projects took years and were STILL created using massive mainframe computers--as PCs were not fast enough or complex enough to do this sort of work. And, most importantly, rendering software had to be created by anyone wanting to do such work. It was a very primitive time for the most primitive sort of CGI.

If this film had been made in the 1990s or beyond, I wouldn't have been impressed. After all, the balloon man and balloon dog were incredibly simple CGI characters. However, given the severe limitations of software and computers, this is awfully good--and the bright and colorful look tends to make up for some of the deficiencies of the style of animation. Worth a look--particularly if you are a fan of early CGI.

Computer animation is a technique in which computers are used to generate animated sequences digitally. Unlike traditional hand-drawn animation, which involves creating individual frames by hand, computer animation relies on digital processes to generate scenery, character models, lighting, and movement.

Tom Hanks and Tim Allen in Toy Story (1995)

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 short form refers to creative works characterized by their brevity and concise storytelling. Unlike full-length feature films, short films have a running time of less than 45 minutes, while TV shorts have a running time of less than 22 minutes.

Benedict Cumberbatch in The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023)

A dog balloon and a humanoid balloon float around and interact with each other.

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