Synopsis: This stop-motion animated short tells the bittersweet story of Nick, a piece of candy who falls in love with a girl who seems out of reach. This film was made by 15-year-old Carter Rostron of Kansas City, using cardboard, construction paper, and a bunch of candy.

Juror comments: Ruth & Nick: A Confectionery Tale has so many different candies. It also plays off some words like Ruth is a Baby Ruth and having the popular kids “snicker.” There is a dancing scene that is very visually appealing and fun to watch.

Nick is a nice carefree guy who just wants to have fun in life. Then he meets Ruth and instantly falls in love. But Ruth is part of the popular kids and Nick is not in the most popular crowd. Nick goes to a Candy Gala and sees Ruth. Will they get together? Watch to find out.

I really like how this story reflects things that people relate to. It shows how lots of schools operate and reflects on life from the point of view of candy. The stop motion is well made. It is really visually appealing and really catches the eye. There are some cool backgrounds for the dance with an amazing construction paper-created dance floor and great-looking rolling hills background, also made from construction paper. Some cool background music plays while the characters are being explained and during the dance. All the music is courtesy of YouTube’s audio library. All the voiceovers for the candy characters are by Carter Rostron, who is also the creator of the film. It taught me more about how the film was made using stop motion. My favorite scene is when they go to the gala.

The message is that love is sweetest when it is a surprise.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 6 to 18, plus adults. Reviewed by Avalon N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic