Clara’s world changes forever when she has to face the death of a friend. © Film Camp & Film Victoria 2004.

Clara (Australia, 2004, 7 min., color, 35mm) Director: Van Sowerwine

In this touching story, a 12-year-old girl’s world changes forever when she has to face the facts of life — the death of a friend. Director Van Sowerwine creates a richly textured world full of flowers and ants. His wide-eyed, expressive main character is filled with melancholy. Using stop motion animation, he brings his characters to life, and death.

Hadacol Christmas brings a twisted sense of humor to the holidays. © Brent Green.

Hadacol Christmas (USA, 2005, 13 min., color, Sony HD Cam) Director: Brent Green

Get into the spirit of Christmas, but bring a slightly twisted sense of humor, the key for watching director Brent Green’s seasonal, 2D fantasy about how Santa Claus invents Christmas — with a bellyful of cough syrup and a head full of dying cows. Ho ho ho and away we go!

If you’re an animation buff and this Sundance slate sounds appealing, don’t take my word for it, see for yourself. Many of these films can be viewed on Sundance’s site through June 2006.

Mary Ann Skweres is a filmmaker and freelance writer. She has worked extensively in feature film and documentary post-production with credits as a picture editor and visual effects assistant. She is a member of the Motion Picture Editors Guild.