Director:G. Auberval / L. Dozoul / S. Gomez / T. Hek / H. Lagrange / A. Laroye / D. Lashcari
Country:France
Technique:3D Computer
Genre:Drama / War / Horror
Year:2016
Length:04:38
Poilus
In the French trenches, calm reigns. The "Poilus" are waiting to leave for the battlefield. Among them, Ferdinand, a young hare, is playing the harmonica. A whistling signal is given, the attack begins. It's on the no man's land that he first encounters his enemy, a horrible creature.
This film felt cinematic. Characters and story immediately resonated. Beautifully animated and edited. Strong soundtrack to match. Kept me on the edge of my seat... which seemed like the intent... Ending poignant but resolved. Bravo!
A strikingly beautiful short about stereotypically harmless animals going into war, fighting each other without even realizing the true meaning of their own involvement. This story about war sublimates into a very touching final moment.
CGI modeling and production design is top notch. Movement is good but seemed to see some motion capture in some of the run cycles. The story got confusing with passing of the harmonica. Could not be sure if this was a flash back or real time.
Larry Loc
Animation Educator / Festival Director: AniMazSpot International Short Animation Feedback Festival
3d execution has top level signature of ISART digital. The plot is super real and rough. Despite of perfect heavy action, ending offers heartbreaking calm sadness. Great piece.
The film is a smart comment on war. It first captures with the detailed and high quality sets, characters and animation, then keeps us hooked with beautiful cinematic shots of the battlefields. Poilus uses music very well and has great timing in its storytelling, building on atmosphere rather than action.
Larry Loc
Animation Educator / Festival Director: AniMazSpot International Short Animation Feedback Festival