Miyu Distribution expands into feature animation with ‘Olivia & The Clouds’

A new chapter in animation

Miyu Distribution, a powerhouse in the world of animated shorts, has taken a significant step forward by acquiring Dominican director Tomás Pichardo-Espaillat’s animated feature Olivia & The Clouds. This acquisition comes just in time for the film’s world premiere at the Locarno Film Festival, specifically in the Concorso Cineasti del Presente section. Following its debut in Switzerland, the film will also compete in the feature competition at the Ottawa International Animation Festival.

Miyu’s growing influence

Miyu Distribution has built a reputation for representing films that make waves during festival and awards seasons. Their catalog boasts several Oscar-nominated films, including Garden Party, Negative Space, Bestia, Pachyderme, and Letter to a Pig. The addition of Olivia & The Clouds marks Miyu’s third foray into feature-length animation, following the success of Dozens of North by Koji Yamamura and Archipelago by Félix Dufour-Lapperiere.

A strategic move

Luce Grosjean, Miyu’s co-founder and Head of Distribution, emphasized the company’s commitment to expanding its international sales in animated features. “Expanding international sales in animated features has always been a key objective. Films like Dozens of North and Archipelago have bolstered our presence in global animation markets, underscoring our commitment to identifying unique cinematic voices and our knowledge of the international festival circuit,” Grosjean stated.

The story of ‘Olivia & The Clouds’

The official synopsis for Olivia & The Clouds reads: “Olivia, haunted by a past love, hides it under her bed. She trades flowers with this ghost in exchange for comforting rain clouds. Barbara, rejected by Mauricio, escapes reality through fantastical stories. Mauricio, full of regrets, is swallowed by the Earth. Ramón, smitten by Olivia, witnesses the growth of a strange plant mirroring her. With surreal elements, Olivia & The Clouds delves into the enduring power of love’s memory.”

Aesthetically, the film is vibrant and energetic, utilizing multiple animation styles and techniques. Notably, the entire film was created by Dominican artists, signaling a promising future for the nation’s burgeoning animation industry.

Upcoming screenings

An industry-exclusive screening for Olivia & The Clouds will be held on August 11, followed by four public screenings from August 15-17. This provides a unique opportunity for both industry insiders and the general public to experience this innovative film.

A cultural journey

Grosjean added, “Olivia & The Clouds resonates deeply with us; its creative vision and original narrative captivated our team. The film’s portrayal of relationships and its vibrant musical world struck a chord. We believe this film not only introduces a talented new animation director but also offers audiences a rich cultural journey. I’m excited for both festival audiences and, hopefully, a broader audience to discover the film.”

Expanding horizons

In addition to its ambitions in feature animation, Miyu has also increased its presence in the Latin American market. Recent acquisitions include Bestia, which has garnered awards at the Berlinale, Annecy, Clermon-Ferrand, and the Annies, before earning an Oscar nomination.

Final thoughts

For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, Olivia & The Clouds represents a significant milestone in the world of animation. The film’s unique narrative and vibrant aesthetic promise to captivate audiences, while its creation by Dominican artists highlights the potential of the nation’s animation industry. As Miyu Distribution continues to expand its influence, both in feature animation and across international markets, it remains committed to showcasing unique cinematic voices and innovative storytelling.

For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Olivia & The Clouds.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Miyu Distribution’s latest acquisition and its implications for the animation industry. By integrating personal reflections and in-depth analysis, it offers a unique perspective for cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts.