You might be surprised to know that some of your favourite animations were worked on by women. For example, Mary Blair animated Disney pictures such as Cinderella and Peter Pan way back in the 1940s.
However, it’s no secret that women still face many barriers in a very male-dominant industry. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of films by the fabulous women in animation! The best part? They’re all free through your student ID (More money for snacks!) So hop in your PJs, grab some popcorn and feel good about supporting female animators.
- Persepolis (2007)
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This drama follows the harrowing story of a young girl, Marji, as she navigates growing up amidst the Iranian revolution. The film is gorgeously drawn in stark black and white, inspired by animator Marjane Satrapi’s autobiographical graphic novel of the same name.
Satrapi dedicates this emotionally powerful tale to her homeland Iran, but the themes of love, identity and family will resonate with anyone. Nominated for the best-animated picture at the Oscars, it lost out to Ratatouille (2007 was a simpler time).
Log in to watch it here on Criterion.
- The Breadwinner (2017)
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A coming-of-age tale based on a best-selling novel by Deborah Ellis and directed by Nora Twomey, The Breadwinner gets double points for girl power. The film’s protagonist, Parvana, lives in Kabul, Afghanistan. When her father is arrested by the Taliban, she must make life-altering decisions to protect her family. Combining bravery, tragedy and stunning visuals, this film is a tear-jerker.
Another Oscar-nominated epic to sink your teeth into on Criterion.
- Bone Mother (2018)
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This film is proof that animation is not just for kids (or even nerdy grown-ups). This haunting tale, produced by Sylvie Trouvé and Dale Hayward, takes classic horror themes and mythology into a cartoonish realm. The gothic atmosphere and blood-red tones create a chilling effect. Fans of Tim Burton should check this one out.
Just one of hundreds of shorts available through NFB Canada.
- Recital (2019)
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Recital by Korean-American artist Sonnye Lim will mesmerise and entrance you. Yim sensitively plays with light, shadow and ethereal animals that float across her fantasy landscape. Stressed from school? Take five minutes, breathe and let Lim’s video set to music by Eluvium inspire you.
Watch here on Vimeo.
- Taku and Mami (2019)
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This thoughtful short by CalArts grad Clarisse Chau follows an afternoon with a sensitive young boy and his busy mum. One small caveat: the boy has a very unusual appearance. Forced to keep his mask up, this short makes us think about the faces we reveal to the world. The gentle score and touch of whimsy will resonate with Studio Ghibli fans.
Available now on Vimeo.
- Bao (2018)
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Okay, so we lied. This one isn’t free, but it gets an honourable mention for being so darn cute!
Domee Shi’s Oscar-winning Bao is set in the animator’s home city of Toronto. A Chinese-Canadian mother lovingly makes baozi for her family as she awaits their return from work. In a fantastical twist, one of her carefully crafted buns comes to life as she nurtures it like a child. Tenderly drawn and sentimental without being sickly, this animation tugs at those heartstrings in the way only Pixar can.
Free for Disney + users or purchase for $2.99 on Youtube.