Hedgehog's Home

Hedgehog's Home, a 10-minute stop-motion animation short film released in 2017, is an enchanting piece of art that stands as a testament to the imaginative creativity and dedication of its makers. Directed by Eva Cvijanović, it is based on the classic Yugoslav children's book by Branko Ćopić, stepping into the world of a lovable hedgehog in a unique and artistic way.

The animation narrates a whimsical tale around the concept of home emphasizing connection to the place we belong, individuality, and bravery. The globally acclaimed actor Rade Serbedzija, known for his roles in Mission Impossible II, Batman Begins, and Eyes Wide Shut, lends his voice to the narration of the film in the original Croatian version. In the English version, the narration is entrusted to the Canadian actor Kenneth Welsh, renowned for his role as Windom Earle in Twin Peaks.

The film stars France Castel, a versatile artist known for her gifts in both acting and singing. Castel’s voice work in the film enhances the engaging storytelling, creating a unique atmosphere that captivates the audience. Her captivating voice work aids in bringing to life the enchanting forest and its inhabitants, forming an integral part of this delightful narrative.

Hedgehog's Home is a heartwarming assertion of the belief that there’s no place like home. The protagonist in this journey is a steadfast hedgehog, who is not just an average forest creature but an embodiment of unwavering courage. This tale of a hedgehog defending his home captivates not just kids, but adults as well with its timeless literary quality and universal themes.

The courageous hedgehog embarks on his adventure when he realizes that his homely dwelling is in jeopardy. As his fellow animals fall prey to misunderstanding the importance of home, the hedgehog steps up, undeterred and firm, to take on the adversities. He navigates this challenge with bravery, demonstrating to his fellow creatures the fundamental value of home.

The film can be seen as a visual tone poem, blending stunning stop-motion animation techniques with a dramatic soundscape. Director Eva Cvijanović skillfully uses felt to create each scene, transforming a simple children’s story into an animated masterpiece with a tactility rarely found in modern animation. Every frame of Hedgehog's Home begs to be paused and admired for its painstaking detail, down to the smallest leaves and stones.

The narrative is poetically complemented by an equally evocative musical score composed by Darko Rundek, whose melodic creativity creates an enchanting mood throughout the film. The elaborate sound design of the film materializes an audio motif that offers a delicate background to the meticulously crafted felt visuals.

Hedgehog's Home is a beautifully crafted work of art that captures the essence of home with remarkable precision. It’s a celebration of the values of bravery, resilience, respect, and acceptance, effortlessly bridging the gap between visually appealing storytelling and soul-stirring life lessons. This film successfully brings to the screen a universally cherished tale with a fresh voice, seamlessly blending old-world charm with contemporary animation techniques.

In terms of accolades, the film has been recognized globally for its innovative storytelling and unique artistry. The film won at New York International Children's Film Festival as well as at Berlin International Film Festival, along with DepicT! Award at Encounters Short Film and Animation Festival in Bristol, breaking boundaries and captivating audiences in every corner of the world.

Hedgehog's Home is thus delightful, visually stunning, and emotionally moving, a film that transcends age boundaries and stands as a reminder of the timeless power of story-telling. The distinct style of Eva Cvijanović, combined with the prowess of actors like France Castel, Rade Serbedzija, and Kenneth Welsh, makes it a must-watch for animation connoisseurs and casual viewers alike. Moreover, the film’s deeper message of the significance and love for one's home resonates with viewers, engraving a lasting impression on the audience's heart.