‘The Song of Flying Leaves’ is a 12-minute, two-dimensional animated film about a 12-year-old girl named Sona, who lives in a forest and sleeps among the leaves. She encounters an old man in the forest who offers to teach her a secret knowledge. Directed and produced by Armenian filmmaker Armine Anda, the film is a collaboration between Iran’s Hoorakhsh Studio and an Armenian studio, Mehr News Agency reported.
Anda, who dedicated the film to her father, was inspired by the poetic cinema of Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami. She teamed up with Iranian producers Ashkan and Arman Rahgozar of Hoorakhsh Studio to bring this unique blend of poetry and animation to life. The film’s script was penned by renowned Armenian director Roman Balayan.
‘The Song of Flying Leaves’ has been on a winning streak, picking up several awards at various festivals, including the Golden Apricot, Rolan, Ajayu, and Paris International Animation Film Festivals. The film has also received honors from Italy, Mexico, Armenia, Georgia, Australia, and more, showcasing its universal appeal and the power of cross-cultural collaboration.
The 12th Ariano International Film Festival, held from July 19 to August 4 in the southern Italian region of Irpinia, aims to showcase and promote cinematic works, with a special focus on animation. The festival fosters a positive cultural exchange and provides a platform for filmmakers to connect and inspire each
other.