Annecy 2024 Welcomes Wes Anderson for an Exclusive Animation Masterclass

The Annecy International Animation Film Festival, scheduled for 9th to 15th June 2024 in France, is set to host acclaimed director Wes Anderson as a special guest. Anderson, known for his work on films such as "The Grand Budapest Hotel" and "The French Dispatch," will take a break from filming his latest project, "The Phoenician Scheme," to participate in the festival.

Anderson's venture into the world of animation began in 2010 with "Fantastic Mr. Fox," a stop-motion film based on Roald Dahl's novel, which earned the Cristal for a Feature Film at Annecy. He continued to explore this medium with "Isle of Dogs" in 2018, a film that pays homage to Japanese culture and cinema. Both films are set to be showcased at the festival, providing attendees with the opportunity to experience or re-experience these unique animations.

In addition to the film screenings, festivalgoers will have the rare chance to attend an exclusive masterclass led by Anderson. During this session, he will discuss his approach to animation, focusing on stop-motion techniques and his directorial vision. This masterclass represents a unique opportunity for both seasoned filmmakers and aspiring directors to gain insights from one of the industry's most innovative figures.

Marcel Jean, the Festival’s Artistic Director, expressed his enthusiasm for Anderson's participation, highlighting the director's significant impact on the revival of stop-motion animation over the last decade. Jean praised Anderson's intricate, theatrical style and sophisticated, holistic approach to directing, noting that his work has inspired many young filmmakers. Anderson's visit to Annecy is seen as a testament to his long-standing relationship and admiration for the festival, making his participation a valuable gift to those in attendance.