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Catalogue

From Far Away

Shira Avni & Serene El-haj Daoud
2000 | 6 min
This short animation tells the story of Saoussan, a young girl struggling to adjust to life in Canada after being uprooted from her wartorn homeland. She has come to seek a quieter and safer life, although memories of war and death linger, memories that are awakened when the children at her new school prepare for a scary Halloween. From Far Away speaks to the power within us all to adapt like Saoussan and to welcome a newcomer.

Part of the Talespinners collection, which uses vibrant animation to bring popular children’s stories from a wide range of cultural communities to the screen.

Awards and distinctions

  • Special Mention of the Jury for Excellence in Direction and Writing
    Alliance for Children and Television Awards of Excellence, Toronto
    2003
  • Special Mention
    Festival Internacional de Cine para la Infancia y la Juventud, Mar del Plata
    2001
  • Honorable Mention - Category: Children and Youth
    International Film and Video Festival, Columbus
    2001
  • Golden Sheaf Award - Category: Best Children's Production
    Golden Sheaf Awards /Short Film and Video Festival, Yorkton
    2001
  • Dick and Ada Bird Award for Best Animated Short Film - with a cash prize of 200$
    Flicks International Children Film Festival, Saskatoon
    2001