This is a story about a little girl who lives in a red world accidentally discovering other colors and looking for them.

Juror comments: Within the first five of this 6 ½ minute animated film, I had teared up twice and gotten the chills three times. The tears are partly because of my musical sensitivity to the score, which is composed for the key character’s wonder as she lives her life in gratitude and begins to envision colors outside her world of red. Discovery is the most uplifting feeling that humans, and especially children, experience. This fabulous journey encapsulates that feeling of amazement and wonder.

The story line of Red is simple and profoundly touching. In a world that is colored red, a young schoolgirl collects the different hues that her red world has to offer in little bottles. Her collection is vast! Soon, she travels to other worlds (in her dreams or in reality?) to collect new colors into her vials. The animated environmental and imaginative images are the fabulous essence of appreciation.

The animation is 2D, using minimalist design. The music, composed by Tomas Hohl, is breathtaking. Tomas uses piano and a toy piano (kinderklavier) primarily, but as the film climaxes to its height, so does the orchestration; hence, my chills. The sound, by Christian Wittmoser, supports the concepts as well. Bravo Chen Yang! This student film reveals the sweetness of your soul and, as the first gift to your baby son, you have captured the essence of innocence.

The message of Red is to keep your eyes open to the miracles of nature, color and sound and you will discover beauty and love.

I give Red 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 18 plus, adults. By Nancy K., KIDS FIRST!