The Aesthetica Short Film Festival is back this November – and they want to get families and young people involved in the fun.
This year, the festival programme includes three sets of family-friendly films, which are perfect for children, teenagers, and adults who are kids-at-heart!
The 13th edition of the BAFTA-qualifying festival will take place in venues across York from Wednesday 8 to Sunday 12 November.
Family Friendly 1: Determination
Recommended for ages 4-10 years.
Resilience is a trait that we must develop as young people. In the face of a challenge, we need to learn that if, at first, we do not succeed, we must try and try again. It’s important to be able to get right back up again if you are knocked down. The characters in these animations teach us the power of self-belief and show us what it takes to carry on and never give up.
In Flutter, plump hummingbird Jerry tries to fit in with his siblings, little spider Temi tries to catch the moon in Swing to the Moon, young fairy Rosalind wants to be a witch in Witchfairy, and more.
Family Friendly 2: Me, Myself & I
Recommended for ages 7-10 years.
It’s not easy growing up. There are so many things to learn, and the carefreeness of youth is something to be treasured. In this programme we meet characters who go through hardship by either being different or experiencing loss. Each story is unique and teaches us that in spite of the obstacles that may be in the way there is always a route around the bend.
Follow siblings Elsie and Theo as their imaginations lead them on an unforgettable journey in The Magical World of Miracles, every morning a little boy wakes up excited to hop and fly with the crows in Corvine, a little boy goes in search of his missing giant in Death of the Gods, and more.
Family Friendly 3: We Are All Unique
Recommended for ages 10-16 years.
This programme is designed for slightly older children and looks at themes surrounding identity, disability, and bullying. Throughout this programme, the central characters are faced with a challenge but with determination and resilience, it’s possible to overcome difficult situations. Connections between people are sometimes strong and other times tested, but it’s the bond of family and friends that can help us to find common ground.
A lonely widower accepts his grandson’s identity in animated musical Pacemaker, new teacher Mike worries his class won’t see past his disability in Newbie, Ryan and his lifelong imaginary friend Jo embark on an ultimate quest together in If, and more.
To see the full Aesthetica Short Film Festival programme and to book your tickets, visit their website here.