- Country: Czech Republic / Slovakia / Poland
- Initial release: June 13, 2019 (Slovakia)
- Film Director: Martin Smatana
- Running Time: 13 Minutes
- IMDB Grade: 7.8
In the world of animated short films, The Kite by Martin Smatana stands out as a poignant and visually stunning masterpiece. This heartwarming film takes viewers on a journey of joy, loss, grief, and renewal through the eyes of a young boy and his grandfather. Through its unique storytelling and beautiful animation, The Kite explores the universal themes of mortality and the enduring power of love. In this article, we will delve deeper into the captivating narrative, the creative process behind the film, and its critical acclaim.

The Story of The Kite
The Kite tells the story of a young boy who visits his grandfather in the countryside. Their bond is immediately evident as they embark on a kite-flying adventure together. The kite becomes a powerful symbol throughout the film, representing the fleeting nature of life and the connection between the boy and his grandfather.
As the seasons change, so does the relationship between the boy and his grandfather. Through the changing weather and the boy’s growing understanding of mortality, the film delicately explores the complexities of loss and grief. The wind, a recurring motif, gently blows the grandfather away, symbolizing his journey towards the end of his life.
The Inspiration Behind The Kite
Martin Smatana, the director of The Kite, drew inspiration from his own personal experiences and reflections on life and death. As a child, Smatana was fascinated by existential questions and found solace in conversations with his grandfather. These conversations served as the foundation for the film’s exploration of mortality.
Smatana wanted to create a story that could appeal to both children and adults, tackling the difficult topic of death with sensitivity and imagination. By using metaphors and symbols, he aimed to provide a hopeful and joyful perspective on the cycle of life.
The Creative Process
Creating the enchanting world of The Kite required meticulous attention to detail and a collaborative effort from Smatana and his team. The film combines stop-motion animation with handmade sets and characters crafted from textiles and other materials.
To bring the seasons to life, the team collected second-hand clothes and fabrics with different patterns and colors. Each season has its own distinct color palette, contributing to the overall visual storytelling. The sets were meticulously designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and familiarity, drawing on Smatana’s own memories of visiting his grandparents during the summer holidays.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
Since its premiere at the 2019 Berlinale, The Kite has garnered international recognition and acclaim. The film has won over 60 awards, including being selected as a semifinalist for the Student Academy Awards. It has also been included in the Film Collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
Critics and audiences alike have praised the film for its emotional depth, stunning visuals, and universal themes. The Kite has touched the hearts of viewers of all ages, sparking important conversations about life, death, and the enduring power of love.
The Kite is a remarkable animated short film that explores the profound themes of loss and renewal through the eyes of a young boy and his grandfather. Through its captivating storytelling and exquisite animation, the film invites viewers to reflect on the transient nature of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones.
Martin Smatana’s creative vision and attention to detail have brought this heartfelt story to life, leaving a lasting impact on audiences around the world. The Kite serves as a reminder that even in the face of loss, there is beauty, hope, and the potential for renewal.