If you’re a book lover, you won’t be able to tear your eyes away from this film. It’s not just about books but an entire world woven around them. It’s a magical realm, like a fairy tale, painted in vibrant, pure colors. Through stunning visuals and music, directors William Joyce and Brandon Oldenburg have crafted a deeply meaningful story that delights both book enthusiasts and cinephiles.
A Simple Yet Profound Tale
The story unfolds with elegant simplicity. On an ordinary day, Morris Lessmore sits on his balcony, surrounded by stacks of books, writing in his own. Suddenly, a fierce storm sweeps through, scattering everything—books, pages, even the words from his notebook. Morris chases after them, clinging to what he can. When the storm passes, it leaves devastation in its wake, with books reduced to blank pages strewn across the ground.
As Morris wanders through the wreckage, he encounters a young woman accompanied by books that soar through the air. In that moment, the colorless world bursts into vivid, joyful hues. From there, Morris discovers a new home—a place where books live and breathe, almost like people.
A Celebration of Books and Imagination
“The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore” earned a nomination for an Oscar in the animated short film category. The film draws inspiration from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the magic of The Wizard of Oz, the silent comedy of Buster Keaton, and an boundless love for books. Without a single spoken word, the directors weave a captivating tale, carried by a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that shifts with the story’s mood—gentle at times, tempestuous at others, and always perfectly attuned to the narrative’s emotional arc.
This is a story that speaks to the heart, celebrating the transformative power of books and the resilience of the human spirit. Each frame is a testament to the joy of storytelling, inviting viewers to lose themselves in a world where imagination knows no bounds.
A Magical Experience for All Ages
The film’s charm extends beyond the screen. It has inspired an enchanting iPad app designed for children, opening a portal to a world of wonder. With a touch of a finger, users step into a realm of stories, knowledge, and discovery, making it a delightful tool for sparking curiosity and creativity.
Produced by Moonbot Studios, this gem of a film is a love letter to books and the magic they hold. It’s a reminder that, even in the face of loss, stories have the power to rebuild, inspire, and carry us to new horizons.