If you’re a fan of heartfelt, visually stunning storytelling, Ice Merchants is a must-watch. This 11-minute animated short, directed by Portuguese filmmaker João Gonzalez, is making waves for its breathtaking animation, emotional depth, and creative storytelling. It’s not just a film—it’s an experience.
What’s the Story?
At its heart, Ice Merchants is about a father and son living in one of the most precarious homes imaginable—a house perched on the edge of a steep cliff. Their daily routine? Harvesting ice, parachuting down to the village below to sell it, and then pulling themselves back up via a pulley system.
But the story goes deeper than just their daredevil routine. Through small but meaningful details, like an untouched coffee mug, the film quietly reveals the absence of the mother. Her loss looms over the father and son’s lives, adding a bittersweet layer to their bond.
And then, there’s the twist. When rising temperatures cause the house to collapse, the father and son face a life-or-death moment. Without giving too much away, let’s just say the ending is as heartwarming as it is emotional.
Why It’s More Than Just Beautiful Animation
Let’s talk about the visuals because, honestly, they’re jaw-dropping. Gonzalez uses a minimalistic animation style that still manages to convey raw, powerful emotions. There’s no dialogue in the film—just expressive movements, vivid colors, and carefully crafted lighting that pull you right into their world.
The color palette is especially worth mentioning. The warm reds and oranges contrast beautifully with cool blues and beiges, setting the tone for each scene. And when things get intense? The lighting shifts dramatically to match the mood, keeping you glued to the screen.
The symbolism is another standout feature. The cliff-side house, the parachutes, and even the ice itself all represent themes of family, survival, and loss. It’s the kind of storytelling that feels universal, even though it’s told in such a unique and surreal way.
Where the Idea Came From
João Gonzalez has a knack for turning dreamlike images into fully realized worlds, and Ice Merchants started with one such vision: a tiny house clinging to a towering cliff. From there, he built a story that feels deeply personal yet resonates on a universal level.
What’s fascinating is how Gonzalez brought this vision to life. He used 3D models during the concept stage, even though the final animation didn’t include them. This hands-on approach helped him fine-tune the film’s distinctive setting, making it as believable as it is fantastical.
Awards and Accolades
Ice Merchants isn’t just a critical darling—it’s making history. It’s the first Portuguese animation to win at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for Best Animated Short Film at the 95th Academy Awards.
Here’s a quick rundown of some of its other wins:
- Gold Hugo at the Chicago International Film Festival
- Best Animated Short at the Melbourne International Film Festival
- Audience Award at Palm Springs International ShortFest
It’s also picked up major awards at MONSTRA 2023, including the Audience Award and the Monstrinha Inatel Grand Prix. Simply put, this film is putting Portuguese animation on the global map.
How to Watch It
You can watch Ice Merchants on The New Yorker’s website here. However, there’s a catch—it’s only accessible in certain regions. To stream it, you might need a VPN to bypass regional restrictions.
Why You Should Watch It
At just 11 minutes long, Ice Merchants is proof that a short film can have a massive emotional impact. It’s a story about love, loss, and resilience, told through visuals that will stick with you long after it ends.
Whether you’re an animation enthusiast, a fan of heartfelt stories, or just someone who appreciates beautiful filmmaking, this one’s for you.
So, grab some popcorn (and maybe a tissue) and dive into the world of Ice Merchants. You won’t regret it.
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