Image: Toei Animation
This is Toei's first-ever Oscar nomination.
Toei Animation's Magic Candies has nominated for Best Animated Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards. This nomination marks Toei Animation’s first-ever Oscar nomination, underscoring the studio’s growing influence and recognition in the global animation industry.
Magic Candies is a 21-minute film inspired by Baek Hee-na’s beloved Korean picture book. The story revolves around a young boy who stumbles upon magical candies that grant him the extraordinary ability to hear the voices in other people’s hearts. The short film was directed by Daisuke Nishio and produced by Takashi Washio,
The other nominees for Best Animated Short Film are: "Beautiful Men," "In the Shadow of the Cypress," "Wander to Wonder," and “Yuck!” The awards ceremony will take place at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on March 2.
As the 97th Academy Awards approach, the anticipation and excitement surrounding “Magic Candies” continue to build. Whether the film takes home the Oscar or not, its nomination alone is a significant achievement that celebrates anime as a medium. Last year, Hayao Miyazaki's The Boy and The Heron took home the Best Animated Feature Film trophy in the 96th Academy Awards ceremony.
This recognition serves as an inspiration for future animated projects, and reinforces the idea that powerful stories can transcend cultural boundaries and touch the hearts of viewers around the world.
