Out in the wilderness a kind and gentle sheep dances about, showing off his beautiful wool. As a result of his happiness and his infectious dance moves, the animals that live near him have befriended him and fallen in love with his joyous demeanor. However, one day, when a man comes and shaves the sheep, leaving him naked and pink, the sheep loses his vigor and excitement, and along with it all of his friends. Boundin’ is the story of this young sheep and his encounter with a jackalope as the jackalope expresses the ideas of identity and self confidence.
I know that I’ve said it before, but it’s worth saying again, Pixar Animation Studios consistently releases wonderful films (both short and feature length) that reach viewers of all ages. The messages and emotions present in these films are ones that just about anyone is capable of relating to. Themes of isolation, self doubt, and friendship have played roles in these massively successful films since the mid-1980’s. Boundin’ is no exception and delivers a simple, but important message that children need to hear and adults fully understand.
First thing’s first, the animation is brilliant. The world expects Pixar’s films to have flawless animation, and Boundin’ has just that. The tiniest details, down to the individual strands of hair, can be seen and add to the level of expertise that exists within the film. As the film plays out and new characters emerge, the animation allows Boundin’ to flow smoothly, keep its footing, and keep viewers engaged. With short films like For the Birds and Geri’s Game existing within the repertoire of Pixar Animation Studios, it seems unlikely that the animation could surpass those highly regarded films, but Boundin’ just might do that. Flawless is the term I used earlier and the term that I believe best explains the animation present in this film.
Now, while the animation is important and plays a pivotal role in the film finding success, the messages that lie just beneath the surface of these Pixar films are the glue that holds everything together. The message in Boundin’ focuses on something that nearly everyone has experienced at one point or another in their lifetime, self-confidence. This sentiment, being one that so many people are able to connect with, draws in viewers and gives them something to hold onto. As the jackalope and sheep contemplate the meaning of self-confidence, and the importance it plays in our everyday lives, viewers feel more and more connected to these adorable animals and understand the importance of their existence. The message is beautiful, and the reality is that many of us need to hear that right now, in a world full of division and self-doubt.
As they have so many times before, Pixar has a tremendous success on their hands. From the animation, to the narration of writer-director Bud Luckey, to the message Pixar is conveying to the masses, not a second goes by that the world doesn’t appreciate what it is that Boundin’ is saying. While the film is simple, there is much to love, and nothing about that is surprising.
Directed by Bud Luckey & Roger Gould.
Written by Bud Luckey.
Starring Bud Luckey.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐½/10
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