“I am hungry for life, and I say that's okay, so eat your fill today…” With these resonant words, Barletta Productions introduces us to “Living Large,” a captivating stop-motion animation film from Czech director Kristina Dufková. Premiered at the 2024 Annecy Film Festival and soon to screen at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival, this film is a touching exploration of childhood obesity through the eyes of 12-year-old Ben.
Ben's story is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. As he navigates the challenges of puberty, he finds himself at odds with his weight, becoming a target for bullies and a concern for his divorced parents and even the school nurse. Despite his love for food and burgeoning talent as a chef, Ben decides to go on a diet in a bid to win the affection of the girl he dreams of. This journey, depicted with a sensitive sense of humor and remarkable use of music and visuals, sets “Living Large” apart from typical animated films.
The film's unique narrative is complemented by its impressive animation style, which is both distinct and endearing. The voice cast, though not yet fully disclosed, features a main character, Ben, who bears a striking resemblance to the vocal style of Michael Cera. This choice adds an extra layer of charm to the character, making his struggles and triumphs even more relatable.
“Living Large” is based on Mikaël Ollivier's novel “La Vie, en gros” (Life in a Nutshell), with a screenplay by Petr Jarchovský. Dufková, known for her previous works like “Fimfarum – The Third Time Lucky” and “Grim Reaper Does Not Bite,” makes her feature-length debut with this film. The production is a collaborative effort by Barletta Productions, Novinski, and Novanima Productions, with Matěj Chlupáček as the producer.
Set to be showcased at various festivals throughout the year, “Living Large” has yet to secure a US release date. However, its premiere at prestigious festivals like Annecy and Karlovy Vary is a testament to its quality and appeal. The film's sensitive handling of the issue of childhood obesity, without resorting to stereotypes, makes it a must-watch for audiences of all ages.
In conclusion, “Living Large” is more than just an animation film; it is a heartfelt story that addresses a significant issue with empathy and humor. As we wait for its wider release, this film is certainly one to keep an eye on for its unique storytelling and distinctive animation style.
