Fantoche 2021 programme now online
Skwigly
These are difficult times to make plans – but it looks like the Fantoche International Animation Film Festival can go ahead live in person once again in the pandemic’s second year. The festival’s 19th edition – its tenth and final under departing director Annette Schindler – will open with Wolfwalkers from the Irish studio Cartoon Saloon (Song of the Sea, The Breadwinner). From 7 to 12 September 2021, alongside 11 of the latest feature films, Fantoche will be showing themed film programmes, classic films, and 76 of the latest animated short films in the International, Swiss and Kids Film Competitions and “Hors Concours”. The latter are available to view anywhere in Switzerland as part of the online festival.
The overarching theme of this year’s festival – “Un monde fragile”, or “A fragile world” – reflects the vulnerability and precariousness of so many aspects of our lives. The pandemic has shown just how fragile the foundations of our individual existence and our interpersonal relationships really are. These realities of life are depicted in two curated short film programmes, two feature films, and additional programmes showing at the festival.
This year, Fantoche is also shining a spotlight on Hungarian animation over the past five decades. From the Communist regime to the present day, Hungarian directors have made major contributions to the development of animation as a visual and social art form with their unconventional approaches, inventive visuals and critical eye. One special aspect of this focus involves a Fantoche first: 2021 sees an animator from outside Switzerland take charge of the festival trailer for the very first time. Step forward Hungarian director, 2D animator and close friend of Fantoche Réka Bucsi (Love, Solar Walk), who will also run this year’s masterclass. She describes her trailer as “visual and abstract: strange creatures staring at a screen and thinking. All accompanied by a twisted version of the Hungarian Rhapsody to fit the mood and add another little taste of Hungary to the trailer.”
Covid certificates required In line with current federal and cantonal guidelines, this year’s edition of Fantoche can go ahead almost as normal, with just a few restrictions in place. Drawing on our experience from last year and taking into account the current fast-moving situation, Fantoche has put in place a range of health and safety measures for cinemas, catering, workshops and parties. These are available to view on our website and are updated on an ongoing basis. Essentially, to attend Fantoche this year, you’ll need to bring a Covid certificate and proof of identity as well as your cinema ticket (children and young people under 16 are exempt). Hygiene rules will also be in place in all festival locations and hand sanitiser will be available. Due to the limited amount of space available, visitors are recommended to use the advanced booking feature sooner rather than later.
The Fantoche online festival
In addition to all safety restrictions, for those who can’t make it to Baden or would prefer not to travel, all competition and “Hors Concours” programmes will be available to view throughout Switzerland as part of the online festival. Live Q&As and conversations with artists will also be streamed online.
All programme details are available at fantoche.ch