You may not know Cartoon Saloon, but they're the Irish studio that's produced two straight Oscar nominees for Best Animated Feature, The Secret of Kells and Song of the Sea. Well now they're back with what could be their biggest film yet, The Breadwinner, because it boasts Angelina Jolie as a producer.
Based on the bestselling book by Deborah Ellis, the story is set in 2001 Afghanistan and follows 12-year-old Parvana, who dresses as a boy so she can work to support her family after her father is arrested. With the Taliban still in control, Parvana risks all to find out of her father is still alive.
It's a powerful story, and based on this footage has some gorgeous animation to help tell it. The animation is similar to what we've seen from Cartoon Saloon in the past, which makes sense considering the film is directed by The Secret of Kells' Nora Twomey.
The Breadwinner hits theaters this fall, and you can probably bet on it being an Oscar contender. Check out Jolie's statement about the film, followed by the trailer.
“I am proud to be a part of this beautiful film with this timely and very important subject matter,” Jolie said. “Millions of girls around the world have to grow up before their time, working to provide for their families at a very young age and in difficult circumstances. They have the strength to do what no one should ask little girls to do. I hope this film is able to bring this discussion to a broader audience. As much as it is an important and very meaningful film, it also stands on its own as a great piece of art. Director Nora Twomey and her team have done something very special. They have breathed life into the characters and paid respect to the subject matter and to a country where women often struggle.”
