Animayo propels two short films toward the Oscars with family stories

Published on June 20, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

The Animayo Gran Canaria Festival, the only one in Spain that qualifies for the Oscars and Annie Awards, has awarded two short films that are now competing for the statuette. 18 Months follows a couple on their journey to become parents, while Porque hoy es sábado portrays motherhood. Both address everyday, relatable themes, gaining international visibility and real chances of reaching the grand film gala.

two interconnected animation scenes split by a glowing filmstrip, left side shows a couple holding a baby ultrasound image while standing near a computer monitor displaying 3D character rigging software, right side shows a mother reading a book to a child on a sofa surrounded by storyboard sketches and animation cels, soft cinematic lighting, warm color palette, pencil texture overlays, technical workstation with drawing tablet and stylus visible in foreground, photorealistic render with subtle cel-shaded character designs, emotional family moments captured during daily life, golden hour sunlight streaming through window, ultra-detailed fabric textures and digital art tools

The Technical Process Behind the Animation of 18 Months and Porque hoy es sábado 🎬

Both short films employ digital animation techniques that prioritize visual narrative over technical flair. 18 Months uses a realistic style with soft textures to reflect the couple's emotional intimacy, while Porque hoy es sábado combines 2D animation with hand-painted backgrounds to evoke the warmth of home. Post-production focused on lighting and rhythm adjustments, avoiding unnecessary effects. The result are pieces that demonstrate that technology serves the story, not the other way around.

Motherhood in Short: When Raising Kids Gets You Closer to the Oscar 👶

Who would have thought that changing diapers or waiting for a positive pregnancy test could become a race to Hollywood. While many parents barely manage to sleep, these directors have managed to have their domestic dramas qualify for the Oscar. Next time your child asks you to watch the same movie for the tenth time, remember: you might be looking at the next big hit in world animation. Or just at a tantrum.