European Animation - Disc 2

Two Dutch Animated Films

Dutch painting, dance and animated films have atwo things in common: they are artforms which rely on non-verbal communication, and they are known the world over.   Used to expressing themselves in visual terms as a means of connecting to other cultures, it is hardly surprising that Dutch animated shorts in all their forms have wond prizes aroung the world.    Below are two examples of such work.

A Little Night Music

The day has come to an end and its time to go to bed. This includes everyone: the humans and of course the house cat.  On the stroke of midnight, all the objects on the sideboard spring to life: cups, glasses, plates, forks, knives and even the food suddenly start making music.   Or is it the cat dreaming? - 8 minutes - DVD copyright year - 2005.

Oooops

A progression of animated characters from Superman to Star Wars to horn-playing reindeer to pool-playing dogs, animated in a combination of puppetry and novel animation techniques.   An absurdly hilarious film, surreal and simple, it captures the audience immediately. - 10 minutes - DVD copyright year - 2005

Sequel: Part 1

In the peaceful atmosphere of her living room, a young woman becomes so engrossed with her novel that the antagonist comes alive. Called a 'clever, delightful and technically skilled combination of live action and animation, it is a wonderful short for all ages to enjoy. - 5 minutes DVD copyright year - 2005

The Race

Simply put, this is a masterpiece.   All the spring-wound toys ever imaginable   are gathered together for a special race.   Monkeys, rabbits, horses,mice, ducks, fish, puppies amongst many other animals, create a gentle and humorous atmosphere with their movements accompanied by classical music. - 14 minutes - DVD copyright year - 2005