Colin Ludvic Racicot’s Oscar®-qualified animated short Where Rabbits Come From is a breathtaking visual journey that marries heartache with beauty, set against the backdrop of a cold, dystopian world. But what truly elevates this deeply emotional story about love, loss, and resilience is its extraordinary animation. Every frame of this film feels meticulously crafted, with the animation itself becoming a silent but powerful storyteller.

The world Racicot creates is one of stark contrast—a harsh, unforgiving environment that seems to swallow its inhabitants. Yet, within this bleak landscape, the animation reveals something magical: the warmth of human (or, in this case, rabbit) connection. The film follows a widowed father rabbit as he tries to infuse his daughter’s life with wonder after the mysterious disappearance of her mother. The father’s efforts to bring magic and joy to their otherwise desolate existence are expressed through the fluidity and detail of the animation, making every small, tender moment feel incredibly poignant.

The film’s visual style is evocative, blending nostalgic hand-drawn animation with modern techniques. The choice to animate the characters in such an expressive way allows for a deep emotional resonance—each character’s movements and gestures speak volumes. The father, though a rabbit, feels completely human in his protective gestures and moments of vulnerability. The animation team paid incredible attention to the subtleties of their body language, whether it’s a comforting embrace or a fleeting glance, making the bond between father and daughter palpable.

The world around them, though bleak, is rendered in stunning detail. From the dystopian, industrial landscapes to the softer, magical elements of the story, the animation uses color and texture to reinforce the narrative’s emotional arc. The father’s small attempts to rekindle wonder—whether it’s telling stories or creating moments of joy—are visually brought to life in contrast to the oppressive environment. The animation captures the delicate balance between coldness and warmth, much like the story itself.

What stands out most about the animation in Where Rabbits Come From is its ability to convey emotion without dialogue. It’s in the delicate animation of the characters’ faces, the gentle sway of their movements, and the dream-like sequences that punctuate the film. These visual cues, paired with a hauntingly beautiful score by Benoit Charest, create an experience that’s as much about feeling as it is about seeing.

Working with legendary animator Sylvain Chomet as a mentor and drawing from the timeless sensibilities of Studio Ghibli, Racicot and his team create a world that feels at once foreign and familiar. The influence of these icons is clear, yet Where Rabbits Come From remains wholly original. The attention to detail in the animation elevates the narrative, transforming it from a simple story about loss into an unforgettable emotional journey.

Ultimately, Where Rabbits Come From proves that animation is not just a medium for spectacle, but a profound method of storytelling. The way it uses movement, color, and design to convey complex emotions and themes is nothing short of masterful. In this world, the animation doesn’t just depict life—it brings it to life in a way that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Written by Lily Henderson