- Country: France
- Initial release: October 4, 2023 (France)
- Film Director: Audrey Chevrolle, Yuha Cho and Hugo Lemonnier
- Running Time: 9 Minutes
- IMDB Grade: 8.4
If you’re a fan of animated films that touch your heart and leave you inspired, then “Try Hard” is a must-watch. Directed by Audrey Chevrolle, Yuha Cho, and Hugo Lemonnier, this animated short film takes you on a journey of friendship, ambition, and sacrifice. Released in 2023, “Try Hard” showcases the talent and creativity of the graduating class from Gobelins Paris. In this article, we’ll delve into the plot, animation style, and the underlying message of this remarkable film.
The Plot: A Dream to Join the Elite’s Visual School
“Try Hard” revolves around the central character, Alex, an art student with a burning ambition to join the prestigious “Elite’s Visual School” (E.V.E). Together with her best friend Kimmy, they embark on a rigorous training regimen to prepare for the notoriously challenging entrance exam. The film captures their relentless pursuit of success, highlighting the sacrifices made along the way.
The Animation Style: A Blend of Fun and Emotion
One of the striking aspects of “Try Hard” is its unique animation style. The co-directors, Chevrolle, Cho, Lemonnier, and their team at Gobelins Paris, have incorporated an anime-inspired aesthetic, adding a layer of fun and excitement to the film. The characters come to life with vibrant colors, expressive movements, and meticulously crafted details. This animation style not only engages the audience but also enhances the storytelling experience.
The Message: Friendship and the Price of Ambition
At its core, “Try Hard” is a poignant exploration of friendship and the sacrifices one makes in pursuit of their dreams. As Alex’s desire to succeed intensifies, it begins to overshadow her relationship with Kimmy. The film beautifully captures the delicate balance between ambition and maintaining meaningful connections. It serves as a reminder that true success is not solely measured by individual achievements but also by the strength of the relationships we nurture along the way.
The Impact: Recognition and Critical Acclaim
Since its release, “Try Hard” has garnered significant attention and acclaim within the animation industry. The film’s thought-provoking narrative, combined with its visually appealing animation style, has resonated with audiences worldwide. It has received positive reviews for its emotional depth, relatable characters, and powerful storytelling. “Try Hard” has also achieved high rankings in various film festivals, solidifying its position as a standout animated short film of 2023.
The Team: Talent and Collaboration
“Try Hard” is a testament to the collaborative efforts of its talented team. Co-directors Audrey Chevrolle, Yuha Cho, Hugo Lemonnier, Brian Lim, and Yuxi Zhou have brought their unique perspectives and skills to create a visually stunning and emotionally impactful film. The animation, music, and sound design seamlessly blend together to create an immersive experience for the audience. The team’s dedication and passion shine through every frame of “Try Hard.”
The Future: A Promising Start for Emerging Filmmakers
For the graduating class of Gobelins Paris, “Try Hard” marks the beginning of their promising careers in the animation industry. With their exceptional talent and the success of their debut film, Chevrolle, Cho, Lemonnier, Lim, and Zhou have set a high bar for themselves. As they continue to explore their creativity and push the boundaries of animation, audiences can eagerly anticipate more captivating stories and visually stunning films from these emerging filmmakers.
“Try Hard” is a testament to the power of friendship, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams. With its unique animation style, heartfelt narrative, and talented team of filmmakers, this animated short film has left a lasting impression on audiences. As we follow Alex and Kimmy on their journey, we are reminded of the importance of maintaining meaningful connections while striving for success. “Try Hard” serves as a source of inspiration for art enthusiasts and a promising start for the emerging filmmakers behind it. So, don’t miss the opportunity to watch this remarkable film and immerse yourself in its captivating world.