Tomorrow, the Oscar®-qualifying animated short from director and animator Aryasb Feiz, is a masterclass in storytelling and animation. Set in the 1970s streets of Shiraz, Iran, this heartfelt film follows a young boy’s struggle for survival whilst caring for his ill father and the unexpected bond he forms with a stray dog. Through this powerful relationship, the film explores themes of resilience, friendship, and hope, offering a deeply emotional narrative that resonates with universal audiences.

Feiz, the founder of BadStache Animation Studio, known for pushing the boundaries of CG animation, once again demonstrates his exceptional talent for crafting visually stunning and emotionally rich stories. The animation in Tomorrow is a standout achievement, bringing to life the vibrant yet harsh environment of Shiraz with remarkable attention to detail. From the worn streets to the expressive character designs, the animation captures both the beauty and the hardship of the setting, grounding the story in a world that feels both lived-in and alive.

Under the guidance of animation supervisor Kaveh Ruintan—whose impressive credits include Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania and Ghostbusters: Afterlife—Tomorrow’s visual style blends fluid motion with striking color contrasts. The warm, golden hues that bathe the scenes of companionship between the boy and the dog are beautifully offset by the darker, more oppressive tones of their environment, especially in the boy’s home where his father lays gravely ill. This careful use of light and shadow enhances the emotional depth, reinforcing the internal struggles of the characters.

BadStache Studio’s commitment to quality is evident in every frame. Their approach to animation is not just about technical brilliance but about creating a visceral emotional experience for the audience. The animation does more than support the story—it deepens it, transforming the boy’s journey into something profoundly moving.

With Tomorrow earning over 15 nominations at major festivals and recently winning at the Foyle Film Festival, it’s clear that Feiz and BadStache’s dedication to their craft is being recognized worldwide. This short film stands as a testament to their ability to tell universal stories with a unique cultural perspective, all while showcasing the remarkable potential of animated filmmaking.

In a year full of standout animated shorts, Tomorrow rises to the top—not just as a compelling narrative, but as a visually breathtaking work of art.

Written by Lily Henderson