Friday's Highlight: The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore

(Image from "The Fantastic Flying Books..." App)

     Today I'd like to feature a beautiful short film about the power of books to change lives.
"The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore" was created by Moonbot Studios and the wonderful author/illustrator/movie creator William Joyce (Meet the Robinsons, Santa Calls, Dinosaur Bob, see my previous post for more about William). Moonbot Studios has also created an interactive app version of the Mr. Lessmore story.
     I watched the video with my 18 mo. daughter and she was quiet and still the whole time. It really is a beautiful and moving story/film. There are no words, but simple, "Pop Goes the Weasel" music and significant sound affects (like the animated books being reminiscent of fluttering birds with a few bug buzzings thrown in). After watching the video below, please leave a comment letting me know what you think. I hope you enjoy it!



The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore from Moonbot Studios.
Inspired, in equal measures, by Hurricane Katrina, Buster Keaton, The Wizard of Oz, and a love for books, “Morris Lessmore” is a story of people who devote their lives to books and books who return the favor. Morris Lessmore is a poignant, humorous allegory about the curative powers of story. Using a variety of techniques (miniatures, computer animation, 2D animation) award winning author/ illustrator William Joyce and Co-director Brandon Oldenburg present a new narrative experience that harkens back to silent films and M-G-M Technicolor musicals. “Morris Lessmore” is old fashioned and cutting edge at the same time.
“The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore” is one of five animated short films that will be considered for outstanding film achievements of 2011 in the 84th Academy Awards ®.

Film Awards Won by “The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore”
To date, “The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore” film has drummed up fans all over the world taking home the following awards:
· Cinequest Film Fest: Best Animated Short
· Palm Springs International ShortFest: Audience Favorite Award
· SIGGRAPH: Best in Show

To enjoy “Morris Lessmore” and other Moonbot Apps please visit the following links:
www.tinyurl.com/lessmoreipad
www.tinyurl.com/numberlys
www.tinyurl.com/bullseyeapp

(Image from "The Fantastic Flying Books..." App)