2001
The Hedge of Thorns
Synopsis
Hedge of Thorns (original title: "Tornehekken") is a 13-minute animated short film directed by Anita Killi in 2001. The story centers on Florian and Malene, two best friends who spend their days playing together by the creek. Their innocent bond is tragically interrupted when war divides their world, forcing them onto opposing sides and making their friendship forbidden.
The film explores the devastating impact of conflict through the lens of childhood, offering a poignant portrayal of the loss of innocence. With its unique cut-out animation style and a deeply emotional narrative, "Hedge of Thorns" has been widely acclaimed, screened at over 60 festivals, and honored with multiple awards.
This story, adapted from the book "Flon Flon et Musette" by Elzbieta, highlights the senseless divisions caused by war and the enduring human spirit amidst adversity.
Festivals
Credits
DIRECTOR: Anita Killi
SCREENPLAY: Anita Killi
BASED UPON THE BOOK: "Florian and Malene" (in French: "Flon Flon et Musette" (1993) by Elizbieta)
PHOTO: Anita Killi
ANIMATION: Anita Killi
EDITOR: Pål Gengenbach
MUSIC: Hege Rimestad
SOUND: Håkon Lammetun, Lydhodene AS
ASSISTANT: Espen Hansen
SCRIPT CONSULTANT: Astrid Hagen
ENGLISH VOICES:
Florian: Raoul Ekeli
Malene: Amy Aasen
Mother: Kristin Zachariassen
Father: Simon Lay
NORWEGIAN VOICES:
Florian: Erik Rimestad
Malene: Karoline Granlund Lammetun
Mother: Kristin Borge
Father: Nils Ole Oftebro
PRODUCED BY: Anita Killi/Trollfilm AS
FINANCED BY: The Norwegian Film Institute (consultant Kjersti Alver) and Trollfilm AS
PREVIOUS DISTRIBUTED BY: The Norwegian Film Institute. Please contact Trollfilm if you are interested in distributing this film in your marked.
Animation Multiplan/Cut-out 35 mm (1:1.66), 13 min.
TROLLFILM AS © 2001
Awards
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Prize
Award
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Mission
The mission of Hedge of Thorns is to illuminate the profound impact of war on children, focusing on the loss of innocence and the divisions imposed by conflict. By telling the story of Florian and Malene, two best friends torn apart by war, the film seeks to evoke empathy and raise awareness about the emotional and psychological toll of such divisions.
Through its delicate narrative and unique cut-out animation style, the film encourages viewers to reflect on the human cost of conflict and the universal need for understanding, connection, and peace. Its purpose extends beyond storytelling, aiming to spark dialogue about the resilience of children and the importance of preventing such suffering.
About the film
Hedge of Thorns is a 13-minute animated short film directed by Anita Killi, created using a distinctive cut-out animation technique. The film was produced by Trollfilm AS, with Anita Killi taking on multiple roles including directing, screenplay, cinematography, and animation. The music was composed by Hege Rimestad, and sound design was handled by Håkon Lammetun.
The English voice cast includes Raoul Ekeli as Florian and Amy Aasen as Malene. The film was adapted from the book Flon Flon et Musette by Elzbieta, bringing its story to life through detailed and expressive animation.
The production received support from the Norwegian Film Institute, Nordic Film & TV Fund, and Fond for lyd og bilde. It was animated in Norway and reflects a strong tradition of Scandinavian storytelling through its meticulous craftsmanship and emotive narrative.
Hedge of Thorns has been showcased at numerous international festivals, where it gained recognition for its artistry and emotional impact.