The Brussels International Animation Film Festival, Anima 2024, drew to a close after a vibrant and magical 10-day celebration of animated films. From February 23 to March 3, the festival enchanted audiences across five venues at Flagey, Marni, and Cinematek, showcasing a total of 29 features and 260 shorts, alongside a myriad of activities and events.
This year’s edition of Anima saw a remarkable 11 percent increase in overall attendance, with a record-breaking 30,000 visitors descending upon Brussels. Throngs of people of all ages, from children to adults, flocked to the festival, which hosted 150 screenings, including 50 sold-out shows.
One of the highlights of Anima 2024 was the diverse selection of films, with offerings from around the globe. The festival provided a platform for 150 guests and filmmakers, offering insights into the art and craft of animation.
Among the standout winners of the Anima Awards 2024 were Isabel Herguera’s “Sultana’s Dream,” which clinched the Award for Best Animated Feature for its exploration of femininity and identity with dreamy aesthetics. The Audience Award for Best Animated Feature went to “The Peasants” by DK Welchman and Hugh Welchman, captivating viewers with its storytelling prowess.
In the children’s category, “Chicken for Linda!” by Chiara Malta and Sébastien Laudenbach emerged victorious, winning both the Jury Award and the Audience Award for Best Animated Feature for Children. Loïc Espuche’s “Yuk!” was awarded the Best Short Film for Children, praised for its subtle exploration of universal themes.
The festival also honored exceptional talents in the short film category, with Nina Gantz’s “Wander to Wonder” bagging the Grand Prix Anima 2024 for Best International Short Film. The Belgian short film “Beautiful Men” by Nicolas Keppens received accolades for its poignant portrayal of brotherhood and toxic masculinity.
Anima 2024 concluded with a promise of more enchantment in the future, as it announced the dates for the 2025 edition, scheduled to take place from February 28 to March 9. As the festival wraps up its physical screenings, it gears up to kick off virtually across Belgium on the Sooner streaming platform, ensuring that the magic of animation continues to captivate audiences far and wide.
