The wider picture
The Girl Who Cried Pearls, a 17-minute stop-motion animated short film, has made a significant mark in the film industry by winning the Oscar for Best Animated Short Film at the 98th Academy Awards held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on March 15, 2026. This achievement highlights the creative talents of filmmakers Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski, who have been collaborating with the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) for over 20 years.
The film, which debuted at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June 2025, tells a poignant story about a girl whose tears turn into pearls, exploring deep themes of love and greed. It has resonated with audiences, screening at more than 45 festivals and earning 14 awards and mentions throughout its journey.
In a statement following their win, Lavis and Szczerbowski expressed gratitude, saying, “This award is a tribute to all the artists who shared this labour with us.” Their collaboration has been marked by dedication, with Lavis noting the patience required to work on a puppet film that took five years to complete. “It actually takes patience to live with someone who takes five years to make a puppet film,” he remarked, highlighting the meticulous nature of their craft.
Maciek Szczerbowski also took a moment to thank the city of Montreal and Canada, stating, “Thank you, the fantastic city of Montreal. Thank you, Canada.” This recognition not only celebrates their individual talents but also shines a light on the broader Canadian animation industry, which has been a nurturing ground for innovative storytelling.
The NFB, which produced The Girl Who Cried Pearls, has a rich history in animation and has won a total of 12 Oscars over the years. This latest win adds to its legacy and underscores the importance of supporting artistic endeavors in Canada. The film features voice work by acclaimed actor Colm Feore and music by Patrick Watson, further enhancing its emotional depth and appeal.
As the film continues to be available for free on NFB.ca, YouTube, and all NFB apps in Canada, it is expected to reach an even wider audience. Observers anticipate that the success of The Girl Who Cried Pearls will inspire more filmmakers to explore unique narratives and innovative animation techniques.
With this Oscar win, Lavis and Szczerbowski have achieved a significant milestone in their careers, having previously been nominated for their 2007 short film, Madame Tutli-Putli. Their journey reflects the evolving landscape of animation and the potential for storytelling that resonates across cultures and generations.