A small independent film from Montreal has achieved significant recognition by winning a prestigious award in the film industry. “The Girl Who Cried Pearls,” created by filmmakers Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski, secured the Oscar for best animated short film at this year’s Academy Awards. The 17-minute stop-motion movie narrates the tale of a young boy and girl, where tears transform into pearls, delving into themes of love, greed, and the repercussions of exploiting suffering.
During their award acceptance, Lavis and Szczerbowski expressed gratitude to their families for unwavering support. Lavis humorously remarked on the patience required not just for the five-year puppet film production but also for living with someone undertaking such a lengthy creative endeavor. They acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various entities such as the National Film Board of Canada (NFB), producers, and esteemed collaborators like Brigitte Henry, Patrick Watson, Colm Feore, and James Heinemann.
Szczerbowski made a heartfelt acknowledgment to their supportive community, emphasizing the talented artists in Montreal and across Canada. Reflecting on his family’s journey from Poland to Canada, he shared a touching moment envisioning his parents’ pride in witnessing his success. The film showcases Montreal prominently, with Lavis expressing how the city influenced the storytelling process, particularly set around 1912-13.
The film’s inception stemmed from a poignant incident during a shoot, where a pearl necklace broke, leading to the concept that eventually evolved over several years. Producer Christine Noël highlighted the collective effort behind the film’s success, underscoring the collaborative spirit needed in filmmaking. The win marks the NFB’s 12th Oscar victory, adding to its esteemed reputation in the industry.
While this marks Lavis and Szczerbowski’s first Oscar win, their previous nomination for “Madame Tutli-Putli” in 2007 laid the foundation for their fruitful 20-year association with the NFB. “The Girl Who Cried Pearls” is now accessible for free on NFB.ca, YouTube, and all NFB apps, aiming to reach a wider audience and showcase the animation talent flourishing in Montreal.