CELEB
A Personal Journey to Animation
María Cristina Pérez has been turning heads in the animation world with her experimental short films, and her latest work is no exception. "Once in a Body" (Una vez en un Cuerpo) recently made its way to the prestigious Annecy Animation Festival's Perspectives sidebar, showcasing the growing talent emerging from Colombia's animation scene. For Pérez, this marks her fourth short film. a milestone that speaks to her dedication and artistic vision.
The film carries a deeply personal dedication: Pérez created it for her sister. But don't expect a straightforward autobiography. The Colombian animator is quick to clarify that while the story draws from real life, it exists firmly in the realm of fiction.
Fiction Meets Reality
"The story portrayed in the short film, about the protagonist as a child and her sister as a teen, is entirely fictional," Pérez explained in conversation with Variety. "It brings together a number of anecdotes and experiences . some of my own, others from people close to me who have gone through similar situations . but the story itself is a work of fiction."
This approach. blending autobiographical fragments with invented narrative. gives "Once in a Body" its unique emotional texture. Rather than a literal retelling of events, Pérez has crafted something that captures emotional truths through invented scenarios, allowing viewers to see themselves in the story regardless of their own backgrounds.
The Heart of Human Connection
What ties Pérez's growing body of work together isn't just her distinctive visual style or her Colombian roots. it's a commitment to exploring human connection. In "Once in a Body," this theme takes center stage, examining the complex bonds between siblings and the way childhood memories shape who we become.
The Perspectives sidebar at Annecy has long been a platform for emerging voices and unconventional approaches to animation, making it the perfect venue for Pérez's experimental work. The festival's recognition of her talent highlights both her individual achievements and the increasing visibility of Latin American animators on the global stage.
A Voice Worth Watching
With four shorts now to her name, María Cristina Pérez is establishing herself as one of Colombia's most promising animation voices. Her ability to weave personal experience into universal storytelling resonates with audiences who may never have set foot in Bogotá but still recognize the sibling dynamics and childhood memories she depicts.
As animation continues to evolve as an art form capable of tackling intimate, personal stories, creators like Pérez are leading the charge. proving that big emotions can emerge from small, experimental packages. "Once in a Body" may be a short film, but its impact extends far beyond its runtime.
