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Industry
Joe Hsieh’s ‘Praying Mantis’ Named 2027 Oscar Short Film Contender
Joe Hsieh’s animated short Praying Mantis has been selected as a contender for the 2027 Academy Awards. The film explores themes of motherhood and desperation through a macabre narrative about a mutant mother.
Our take: We track this to understand how bold, character-driven narratives are performing on the global stage for independent animators.
Industry
Get Jiro! creators discuss complex one-take action sequence
The team behind the Adult Swim series Get Jiro! explains how they executed a demanding continuous shot. The production blends influences from yakuza movies, samurai cinema, and cooking anime while honoring Anthony Bourdain’s bold creative spirit.
Our take: We value this breakdown because mastering complex camera movements in animation is essential for elevating the cinematic quality of our original IPs.
Industry
SAG-AFTRA members vote on new TV animation deal terms
Union members are voting on a proposed television agreement that includes yearly pay raises, improved residual payments, and broader safeguards for artificial intelligence usage in production.
Our take: We track this to understand how evolving voice actor contracts and AI clauses might shape future casting budgets and creative workflows for our original series.
Industry
Manchester Animation Festival selects seven projects for development lab
The Manchester Animation Festival has chosen seven UK-based feature animation projects for its new Animation Featured initiative. Supported by BFI National Lottery funding, the program offers producers seven months of mentorship and industry access to help advance their films toward market readiness.
Our take: We track this lab because it highlights how structured development support and lottery funding can help independent creators bridge the gap between concept and production for original animated features.