Children’s Films from Around the World: Wishful Thinking

Getting through everyday life can be quite a challenge when you don’t like water – no wonder our man is so grumpy. Sundsvall filmmaker Per shows that a little good old-fashioned CBT (exposing yourself to the things you don’t like) and a healthy dose of playfulness can go a long way!

Dad wants Mathilde to tidy away her cars from the living room. They’re expecting guests! But the cars and their drivers have an adventure to go on first. A relatable and delightful mix of live action and animation for both young and old. And most importantly: Who gets the spatula?

Mr Yoku is celebrating his birthday, and the most important thing is to make sure he has received every present he is expecting from his friends. One of them, Tokiori, arrives late and has brought a gift that doesn’t quite live up to Mr Yoku’s expectations. At least, not at first.

Musical, rhythmic and artistic, presented in the form of a phenakistoscope. First, a colourful little burst of joy that brings the body to life, followed by a moment of reflection on the journey of life.

Swedish short films for children in Yiddish are a rare find. This delightful take on a classic story follows Mum Gefilte as she calls her five children home with an “Oy Vey!” – only for them to become fewer and fewer each day. Fish-ball children on an adventure, with a sprinkling of Jewish words and expressions – what’s not to love?

A red apple in the forest – what a joy! Until the hedgehog and the squirrel start arguing over who actually found it first. As greed and conflict take hold, they turn to the wise owl for help. Because what is an apple worth compared to a friend?

The octopus iiiiiif is drawing in their studio. When the light bulb goes out, a trip down to the basement storage is in order – and the ride down the fire pole becomes both a glimpse into and an interaction with the other artists in the building.

Animerad och berättad av åttaåriga Aria kommer berättelsen om den lilla bävern, lusen och loppan till liv. Fint inramat av bilder från själva skapandet och en sagostund med morfar visar på ett konstnärligt samarbete över generationsgränserna.

A train window. A grey waiting room. A journey accompanied by the sound of trains against the tracks. The traveller begins to think, imagine, and drift away into a dream. The journey becomes something entirely different, and the feeling remains even after reaching the final destination.

For Philip, life and the daily routines at the campsite are familiar. When a new family arrives, with a flashy modern motorhome and a girl his own age, he mostly notices what their tent is lacking. But perspectives differ, and fortunately, they can shift and offer new insights into life.