Float

Float is a heartwarming, animated short film released in 2019 by Pixar Animation Studios, now synonymous with world-class storytelling and groundbreaking animation. The film stars the vocal talents of Eli Fucile, Luna Watson, and is directed and written by Bobby Rubio.

Directed by Bobby Rubio, Float is part of Pixar's new initiative known as the "SparkShorts" program - a collection of indie short films intended to find new storytellers and explore new storytelling methods within the animation industry. The movie is seen as a significant departure from Pixar's usual fare, introducing elements that focus more on human connection and emotion. The film runs for approximately seven minutes and includes a unique blend of beauty and simplicity in its storytelling.

Float tells the engaging story of a father and son relationship which takes on a whole new dimension. The father realizes that his son is different from other children - he can float in the air. The movie navigates through the father's emotional journey as he learns to accept and cherish his son's unique ability. The storyline explores the universal theme of parental love and acceptance, intertwined with the child's struggle to fit into society.

Eli Fucile lends his voice to the floating child, marking his third collaboration with Pixar after voicing Jack-Jack Parr in The Incredibles (2004) and Incredibles 2 (2018). Simultaneously, Luna Watson provides the additional voice to add more depth and richness to the characters' dialogue. What makes this film particularly compelling is that every element within the short film, from the characters to the plot, contributes to its emotional resonance.

In the film, the son's floating phenomenon is symbolic of the ways many children stand out and are often perceived as different. The father's struggle to suppress his son's ability is a metaphor for the challenges many parents face when their child is different in any way. Bobby Rubio has also said that the film is semi-autobiographical, mirroring his own journey of raising a child with unique needs.

Despite its relatively short runtime, Float successfully conveys an array of emotions - joy, fear, confusion, and love - that resonates with audiences of all ages. The movie doesn't rely on dialogue to tell its story; instead, it uses gestures, expressions, and background score to evoke powerful emotions. At the core of its heart, the movie asks its audience to reassess what it means to be different and highlights the triumph of love, acceptance, and understanding over fear and prejudice.

Overall, Float is exquisitely animated, with each frame filled with vibrant colors that bring the characters and settings to life. The animation takes the time to focus on small but significant details, such as the sun's rays filtering through the trees or the character's nuanced expressions. This attention to detail adds depth and authenticity to the story, making it even more relatable to the audience.

Bobby Rubio not only directs but also takes on the role of writer for the film, crafting a touching narrative that is both personal and universal. His storytelling ability truly shines in this short film, as he skillfully handles the themes of acceptance and unconditional love. His direction ensures that the story maintains its emotional punch without feeling overwrought or manipulative.

In conclusion, Float is a beautifully created short film that captures the essence of human emotions and connection. With excellent voice performances, spectacular animation, and a soul-stirring story, the film leaves a lasting impact on its viewers. It asks us to celebrate diversity and reminds us of the transformative power of acceptance, consequently making it a worthy addition to Pixar’s notable repertoire.