Animax Tel Aviv marks 25 years amid conflict and creativity

Animax Tel Aviv, a celebration of animation, comics, and character art from around the world, is commemorating its 25th anniversary with a gala festival to be held August 5-9.

Against the backdrop of the October 7, 2023, Hamas mega-attacks, the ongoing war in Gaza, and the recent Israel-Iran War, the festival’s showcased artists and their works will reflect that spirit of expression and the darker reality that Israel has faced.

One of the standout pieces at the festival about the Israel-Gaza conflict comes from director Jordan Barr and co-director Chen Heifetz of Tel Aviv’s Studio Pixel. They have created a six-minute animated film telling the story of Guy Gilboa Dalal, an anime fan who attended the Nova music festival, where hundreds were killed and kidnapped.

Dalal was among those taken hostage and, nearly two years later, remains captive in Gaza. The film’s raw, personal narrative offers both a tribute and a stark reminder of the human cost of ongoing conflict.

Featured guests include Michael Kichka, a renowned comic artist known for blending personal narratives with political commentary; Benny Sabati, a leading scholar on Iran; and Dekel Shay-Schori, a specialist in Middle Eastern animation. They will offer insight into the Iran-Israel conflict while shedding light on how Iranian artists are using animation, comics, and political cartoons to challenge censorship and authoritarian control.

Known for their distinctive animation style and humor that defies comparison, Niri and Gali have carved out a unique niche in the industry. Their approach is so iconic that producers often refer to it simply as the “Niri and Gali style,” a testament to their creative legacy. This year, the duo will be honored with the Animax Lifetime Achievement Award, an accolade many say is long overdue.

The award night promises to be as entertaining as their work itself, featuring activities like a Kahoot! trivia quiz based on their most famous videos, as well as a behind-the-scenes talk revealing how they transform everyday, mundane scenarios into viral comedic hits using their signature style.

Another special guest at this year’s festival is legendary indie animator Bill Plympton, who will be visiting Israel for the first time. Known worldwide for his distinctive hand-drawn style, Plympton has created eight feature films and countless acclaimed shorts – all painstakingly animated by hand.

Plympton will host a masterclass titled “Cheap, Fast, and Funny,” offering a candid look at how to survive – and thrive – as an independent animator in today’s highly commercial industry. For aspiring artists and animation enthusiasts alike, it’s a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of the world’s most iconic voices in independent animation.

Beyond the headlining events, attendees can look forward to a wide array of activities, including narrative shorts, animated documentaries, student films, musical showcases, and special competitions for children and young creators.

In a year marked by hardship, Animax Tel Aviv stands as both a tribute to the power of storytelling and a reminder that even in times of conflict, art continues to unite, challenge, and inspire.