
The animated short film “Magic Candies,” directed by Daisuke Nishio, comes from Toei Animation, known for hit series like “One Piece” and “Dragon Ball.” However, it retains a distinctly personal feel. Created using CGI but styled to resemble stop motion, the 21-minute piece revolves around a lonely boy named Dong-Dong. After purchasing a bag of vibrant candies, he finds that each sweet enables him to communicate uniquely with different people in his life – an old couch in his apartment, his confused pet dog Gusuri, and his overworked single father, among others. This communication only lasts as long as the candy remains in his mouth. The short is humorous and carries a heartfelt emotional resonance. It occasionally explains events on screen, which might enhance its impact for the young viewers Nishio aims to connect with (and also allows it to appeal to older audiences who can understand subtitles). This nomination gives it the opportunity to travel beyond borders and touch American viewers.