Under This Luminous Sky | Animated Short Film 2022

[@quirkyqwerty2840]

That last shot, of the mage's light sparkling their path as they flee, is especially well done. Plus the watercolor palette really sells the "fairytale" feeling, which with the excellent musical direction reminds me of the Howl's Moving Castle film in all the best ways.

[@Unknown-si3wk]

Yup!

[@bchavezbar325]

Agreed!

[@spacespruot9858]

yep, agree

[@PlumBlossomCat]

Indeed

[@iusedthisaccountwheniwasalive]

Omg i was also reminded of ghibli’s version of howl’s moving castle, especially at the part that showed the sky and planes

[@helentee9863]

The fact he said " demoted" at the very end, when it could so easily have been dismissed, exiled, imprisoned or even executed. It shows he will grow into becoming a much, much greater king than his father is 🤩

[@noranizaazmi6523]

BECAUSE HE KNOWS THEY’RE JUST DOING THEIR JOB!!!! 😭😭 if they didn’t they’d be penalised for betraying the monarchy or as such 😭😭

[@helentee9863]

@@noranizaazmi6523 knowing is one thing, but knowing and acting correctly is another. Kings (absolute rulers) so often don't care what is right(reasonable) about what they do,only that they have the power to do it. If you study a little history you will learn this. History is often unpleasant (but also nearly always fascinating).

[@ILvIsekai]

​@@noranizaazmi6523the people working in the gas chambers, gestapo, gulag were just doing their jobs.

[@samueleamadio2801]

I love the fact that I’m not the only one noticing that

[@dylanjaz784]

his dad was a big jerk towards mages, So of course!. he will be a great and better king than his father

[@kkav4586]

I love the tone shift after Aries proves that he understands- that he isn't blind to his father's opression by helping Skylar. But what makes it amazing bcs it is also a tone shift for Skylar. Skylar sees their country as doomed bcs of the tyranny and can't quite see their friend Aries as a seperate entity from the people upholding that tyrany. And how could they? Aries is the heir. They could just keep doing the same. But when Aries says "I'll miss you" Skylar realises that he DOES understand. And he might be even more trapped than they are- he is the hope of this country. He is the only person that actually has a chance of chancing things. The film is just a moment stolen from a beautiful, vibrant world. But I could see so many possible futures for it, just from this one tidal moment in their lives.

[@pinkyinpeaches6749]

Beautiful just beautiful

[@strangeactuallylegume]

I really like how you mention that he’s trapped too, that he has to stay or else no one can make things better

[@lavnrder]

being able to establish a complete world and dynamic characters in 5 whole minutes is already amazing, but the art is the cherry on top. didn't think I would be crying over characters I knew for a couple minutes haha

[@Luckylucked]

THE HOWDY FROM TEXAS CAT

[@katelynmadsen8756]

Same

[@adiaman]

I love the fact that when the prince asked Skylar if they would miss anything, they said "there's nothing to miss", and he says he'll miss them, implying that he wanted to know whether Skylar cared to miss him or not.

[@Amexella]

😭😭 exactly

[@aLiShii_]

I knew too😭

[@Itskrea]

Yeah that part broke my Heart

[@ghostjam5984]

omg i thought they were lesbians 💀💀💀

[@iusedthisaccountwheniwasalive]

@@ghostjam5984 Lmao- 💀

[@spoony8485]

Nah this is too good for a student film. you gonna be a director some day I can see it clearly. The subtle pauses between words, how some scenes linger on adding some more tension, the shot framing, the writing being conveyed easier through movement, and how everything isn’t directly stated but told easier though the scene itself, you got some crazy good intuition of this stuff already. Can’t wait to see what you produce in the future.

[@SoySauce9]

It's just good filmmaking. I'm definitely excited to see what Emily will participate in or even create.

[@Thewhiteandorange]

this. 100%

[@aydenjacko]

Its a little confusing with this film. Because Emily Xu is well known in the industry she has worked on a lot of interesting projects, so I do wonder if the college brought her in to direct this film or if she went to get a degree after working in the industry for a few years.

[@amnessie]

@@aydenjacko She went from high school directly to Sheridan. This was the thesis film project that students complete during their last year at Sheridan. After creating this film and graduating, she entered the animation industry.

[@aydenjacko]

@@amnessie Ah I see, isn't she still at Sheridan but also working in industry at Disney? I think I saw a post about her third film now in production

[@lemoncholy]

pure magic. i’ll be thinking about this for days 💛

[@ellananeer5158]

omg it's you!!

[@arkeiyan]

this piece and birdsong have been on repeat for me

[@getmiloed]

holy crap

[@pie_berry]

My two favorite animators in one place!! God I love both your works

[@alonianewcomb7739]

LEMONCHOLY AAAAA

[@yt_7777]

I would see an entire series based on these two growing up and writing to each other over the years, the shenanigans they get into growing up and as the years pass, writing letters to each other about it all the whole way through (although some details can be left out of stories they share with one another), all the way until they’re young adults- where he becomes king, and she eventually coming back once he’s sorted out everything he needed to.

[@DapperestDave]

Story wise this is definitely the beginning of an anime where the next episode or the end of the pilot she comes back to see that something changed aries along the way

[@Thepreacher_1]

I swear there need to be more of this and not all those cringe live action anime that no one asked for

[@yunantheobserver6841]

@@DapperestDave nah...I see this as Aries being assassinated cause of unhappy members of nobility houses as well as some if his people getting culture shock at the new laws that don't fit their worldviews. I can see it as Skylar getting news from eastward, of the royal family of her homeland being attacked by a cou'detat or an uprising and the newly crowned king (Aries) was killed in the attack. The hopeful spark of a future generation, snuffed out before it can even light a match.

[@Thepreacher_1]

@@yunantheobserver6841 feel like a nice slow not much action story based slow show I would love it especially with this art style

[@Oventheif]

@@DapperestDave probably some sort of trauma knowing anime

[@sarahtachibana1333]

That long, long pause as she realizes he's stolen her wand...all the ramifications of what could happen to her, if he decides to be selfish, play out in the excruciating silence of that moment. For him it would just be a moment of being a brat, but for her, it could mean imprisonment, or death, humiliation, her life ruined, her freedom gone. Both the deep affection and the deep imbalance of power between them, so perfectly portrayed. This is both a fantastical story and a story so very relevant to today's society. Incredible. She is a very strong person and I empathize with her. I teared up.

[@team10leader1]

And Aries revealed his true nature with just these words: "I'll miss you". Three little words acknowledged he wouldn't stop her from leaving, and only wanted a chance to say good-bye. There's an old saying: "If you love something, set it free".

[@sarahtachibana1333]

@@team10leader1 I think his true nature is revealed by all his actions, not just his final one. His nature is more complex than just one theme: he's conflicted. There is the side of him that won out in the end, that let her go...and the side of him that was considering not letting him go. The side we see in how he delayed her getting her wand, waiting while she searched, knowing she wouldn't find it. He was still weighing the two then. Still making his choice. I understand celebrating his final choice but feel like it's a disservice to simplify him...he is complex, and morally grey, and I think that's what makes this short feel so real.

[@team10leader1]

@@sarahtachibana1333 True! Previously, he DID try to look on the bright side by saying Skylar could still do weaving, until she pointed out they were editing the tapestries more and more. He wanted her to be happy, but he also wanted his dear friend by his side.

[@sarahtachibana1333]

@@team10leader1 Yeah. Complex character. The good and bad in him, all combined, interwoven like a tapestry. Such a true-to-life depiction.

[@team10leader1]

@@sarahtachibana1333 Your words, about how Aries' good and bad are "interwoven like a tapestry", are very poetic. Unlike his father who needed a committee to "edit" the tapestries of his travesties, the young prince is willing to accept both his flaws and strengths.

[@mandy2917]

For a moment when I saw the empty wand box, I thought Aries would be keeping Skylar from leaving. I'm so happy that wasn't the ending, but it's still so bittersweet. I love it so much! Brilliant idea that was brought to life in the animation. The emotions and expressions and the sparkle effects, both in animation and sound, are gorgeous.

[@Rhhhinnn]

Oh yeah, me too. I was so scared for a moment. So happy that it wasn't like that.

[@robbierom3868]

Subverted my expectation. My theory is that Aries's original intention was that, but changed their mind during they stared at each other.

[@SummerinDecember01]

@@robbierom3868 that’s an interesting way to look at the situation but my thought is that he just want her to stay with him a little longer, enough for a goodbye

[@adrielmartinez8110]

You have the responsability to make 3 movies and 10 season series about this.

[@aporajitabangali3827]

The little “if you will have me” she added at 4:03 made my heart squeeze. It shows that she cares for him too, but because of her circumstances she has to prioritise her escape before anything, which obviously doesn’t make anything less painful.

[@CsMsLady80]

3:58

[@tarominion]

I feel like the phrase "like a Ghibli movie" is thrown around too freely to describe animations sometimes, but this really does have all the little details that truly gives it that Ghibli feeling. I like the subtle worldbuilding through sound design (such as with the military planes), the voicework isn't over the top, and the music was beautiful and used perfectly. And there's something about the animation at 2:00 that really sticks to me how the mage slows down to look at the guard and then goes on her way which has the same sort of cadence as a Ghibli film. What an amazing piece of work!

[@vernattin]

I think you put it perfectly how I felt when watching this short film! A Studio Ghibli-like cadence is just the way to describe the way the story stops to breathe during the quieter moments. A lot of movies these days feel a need for non-stop action or dialogue, but the segments in stories like this short during which all that's happening are down-to-earth movements with natural sound effects do a lot to immerse yourself into the world. For me, it was the part at 2:07 when Skylar pulled the pins from her hair that made me think, "Ghibli moment!" The attention to detail in the movement was great.

[@magicalmomo9987]

Yes! All of this plus the political theme is 100% Ghibli-esque. I loved every minute 💕

[@iampaper]

I felt the exact same way about that part!!

[@valrfl]

My thoughts exactly!

[@ToscaTee]

The first ten seconds instantly gave me howl’s moving castle flashbacks

[@crownedfox5465]

This is SO good. No matter how many times I watch this, the silence at 3:15 is still palpable. It makes my heart skip a beat, like I'm watching it again for the first time. I actually have a fan theory that Aries messed with the keys to give them time to talk, because how can they not know the exact key to a room they use so often? There is so much to dissect in this five min. film (short of five if you exclude the credits), so I won't start, because I might not be able to stop. I will say, however, it is my literal dream to write a story so beautiful and simplistically intense, which still touches a person's heart every time they watch it, no matter how many times they have already. So, genuinely, thank you

[@Fletcher22912]

if you do write a story or make an animation like this let me know i would love to watch it / read it

[@weiqi5239]

I am in absolute awe... Every part of this film is so incredible! The detailed backgrounds, smooth animation, interesting characters and their designs; I could go on and on! I admire your work so much, thank you for inspiring me and so many others

[@BunBunting]

Omg hey weiqi :0 !! So many rockin' artists here!

[@odinudin4313]

WOO WEIQI!!!

[@naomijoleneolveramontalvo2568]

😃yes🏰👑

[@esverker7018]

And the sound design! The jingle of the wand magic, the echoey footsteps, the snipping scissors, the funny chirping voice of the guard. Good stuff.

[@dedouze]

This is so beautiful and enchanting ! I was smiling during the whole thing. I'm gonna be thinking about the these magicians for a while XD

[@mintovii522]

OMG DÉDOUZE!! IT'S YOUUU :'') 💗 it's amazing how a lot of great artists are hereee

[@dedouze]

@@mintovii522 🙈

[@ihavemanynames3568]

HELLOOOO I LOVE UR ARTWORKS! SO NICE TO SEE U HERE

[@Herii]

This gives "We'll meet again, don't know when, don't know where but I know we'll meet again some sunny day." vibes

[@user-sl1wt1dv4y]

FROM EMILY: "What happened to the animatics on my KZbin channel: They're unlisted. They featured snippets of Catechism characters and plot very early on, when we just started to develope the project. I did them as concepts that I thought had potential to be fun, and also just to take a break from my schoolwork. I understand that the animatics are what sparked many’s interest in Catechism, and I am beyond grateful that they brought people together, however this story has changed SO MUCH since then, and barely anything about those snippets are still true. Since opening the discord I saw that a lot of the people gathered here have certain outdated assumptions and expectations for the project and for the characters, which were derived from the animatics. The damage has already been done, but I wanted to remove them to prevent any future confusion. We hope that audiences can walk into this comic with fresh eyes. (And also honestly I've been wanting to remove the videos for a while just cause I don't think they're very good boards and I can hopefully do much better now. Overall they just no longer accurately represent either me or Catechism) I’m still thankful for all the support the animatics got, and I learned a lot and had a lot of fun making them, but I hope you guys can understand the decision. They will not be made public again."

[@doogaminyu]

Oh okay I was wondering what happened to the other videos

[@FriendlySerafui]

Thank you for this! I was wondering where the other videos are.

[@fwuuton]

Welp. I'm glad I downloaded them for personal reference and inspiration beforehand

[@poodled7794]

Is there any chance you could send them to me? T_T I wanted to use them to reference in my university project@@fwuuton

[@Blaxx112]

Thanks so much for posting this. I thought something happened to them as a result of copyrighted music in them or something, but this explains it. It's too bad though, because I very much loved the animatics. And I look forward to her Catechism series too. Honestly, it wouldn't have mattered to me whether or not the animatics were accurate to how the story of Catechism resulted in being. I'd enjoy both all the same. But out of respect for her, I understand and accept her decision.

[@raisabia]

This a masterpiece. The colors, the unique tone. But I must say my absolute favorite part was on 2:46, when Prince Aries asks if Skyler would miss anything and she simply says "What's there to miss?" I could FEEL the hurt he must have felt. And if he so decided, he could hide her wand. Keep her with him. But no. He just accepts it and tells her he would miss his friend. Simply beautiful.

[@raisabia]

@JoshyHush You're entitled to your own opinion, no matter how bad it is. 👍

[@raisabia]

@JoshyHush 1. I liked the dub 2. if you pay attention there are two credited va's. 3. you can share your opinion without being rude. 👍

[@raisabia]

@JoshyHush what are you talking about, this IS the original. and I don't know why you're saying this under my comment lmao but here we go. YOU didn't like it, but tons of people did. I don't know how old are you, but there are right and wrong ways on how to convey your distaste. And this isn't it.

[@raisabia]

@JoshyHush ....because it's dubbed. the drawings won't come alive and talk by itself lmao. you're clearly young and inexperienced if you can't even understand how dubbing works. once again, it's YOUR opinion. plenty of people found it good. go be a hater on your own comment. have a nice day. 👍 EDIT: you edit your own comment so I'll edit mine as well. who are YOU to say what's mediocrity or not? you're just some bitter guy, jealous of other people's success. grow up.

[@tomatoegg1147]

There's so many clever things, like the record snipping at 1:20, the "rope" connected to the star at 4:20, and the twinkling of the lights at the end signifying Skylar's trail. And underneath all the glittery stuff, there's themes of a stifling government. This world you've built is so beautifully creative that it feels like the possibilities are endless.

[@uhhu8623]

17:38

[@zetjet9901]

Yes its so gooddddd

[@tecc9999]

@@uhhu8623 i'm like hey, what's up, hello?

[@AzureRoseMarshal]

Hey magic is dangerous stuff and what’s wrong with defending your own country from something dangerousb

[@throughcolouredglasses9300]

I can't put into words how special this feels. It deeply touched me. You did something incredibly special here. This short movie is so much more than the sum of it's parts; you've made the music, the art style, the rhythm of the animation and movement, the delicate world building and storytelling - which are already beautiful on their own, but have all been done before - into such a compelling, new thing. I'm crying real tears here only partly because I'm sad about the characters living through such painful events and decisions. A big part is just how many emotions this made me feel overall, from pure joy and delight about every single choice you made in order to convey the world and these wonderfully rounded characters, to the aesthetics and sound design. It takes so much skill, labour and love to make something this "simple" but have it be deeply compelling and impactful. You took the simple art style, restricted colour pallette and limited scenes and dialogue and made it ... *refined*. It feels like i got to watch something very important. It feels like you made something truly sublime, in the original meaning: making the viewer feel terror and delight, and painful awareness of their own human limits by confronting them with something bigger, beyond their everyday life experiences. I'm so grateful I got to see this. Thank you for enriching the world with your art.

[@Mikaelamofu]

The colors… the visuals..! THE VA all of this is absolutely amazing and I’m so in love with your work and in love with this animation ❤️

[@kiing.diimon4984]

Yooooo wassup I didn’t expect to see you here

[@Mikaelamofu]

@@kiing.diimon4984 LOL same to you too xD

[@damurdergoose619]

This is a very short story, but the two characters already go through their own arcs. Aries is in a bit of denial regarding how badly the citizens are being controlled, and just wants to hang out with his friend, but sees that “they’re confiscating wands now” and “editing records more and more”. Skylar sees the situation as hopeless and just wants to run away, but seeing the support of Aries gives her some more hope. So impressive, so cool~ lovely, charming world and story

[@johntheappleseed6585]

I love that this whole comment section is immediately fans of this piece. It's always a treat to see an Oscar-worthy short film on a public space like KZbin.

[@rinnavalcury7008]

The girl's "Oh, but I worked so hard on that part" on 1:21 is the saddest, gentlest and most sweetest thing I've ever heard.

[@shar]

incredible.... i'm in love w ur work....

[@ziscreet]

Oh, hey shar, your work is lovely as well

[@youtubussy]

Same

[@esverker7018]

The world-building in this is insane. At the end when the gold thread linked to a star I gasped; it's so cool. The colors too! The tapestry alone is amazing. It's definitely it's own wonderful thing, but it also kinda reminds me of ghibli, mixing pretty magic and beautiful art with deeper themes like war and enduring friendship. I rewatch this all the time.

[@annalee9836]

im constantly awestruck by how much story you can pack into such a limited timeframe. i love the unique style of magic (thread connecting to stars!!!), the way the dialogue never infodumps but gets everything across smoothly, the subtle yet powerful emotions each character portrays, and of course the beautiful art!! tysm for sharing this

[@auroraborealis5105]

Ok here’s what I think: there are mages in another kingdom that are occasionally attacking or starting a war with this one, so the poster is asking people to enlist to fight against those mages. But there are also mages in THIS kingdom, but due to stereotypes, the king is afraid and shuts them up in this “school”, which is really just for controlling them, as you see they are not allowed to have their wand out of class

[@dafina944]

YO

[@cheryune]

oh my goodness the watercolour backgrounds are really pretty - and the world building and characters are so well done ?! I love this so much

[@58209]

all the drawers having different wood grain patterns was a detail that really surprised me

[@hchen3010]

the va and sound design rly ties it together too!

[@starkregen9692]

I came from Spotify. I heard the soundtrack and I was obsessed with it. Wonderful music

[@starkregen9692]

This is so good!!!!! I love the movie as well as the songs!!!!❤

[@bjp1101]

I just started but the colors have caught my heart, and I'm so in love with the voice acting,the music and the animation already.

[@chocoais6601]

Same, the colours and animation are really amazing

[@Binary-]

This was so beautiful! I especially loved the intensity at 3:14 ; you could just FEEL Skylar's realization that Aries has their life in their hands, and the terror that came with it. It's the reminder that they're not just their friend; they are the king's child, used to wielding power over people, probably not even realizing how scary they're being in this moment. But they give it back, the hopeful sign that they're not like their father, that there likely IS an improved future for Skylar to return to. I really loved it, well done!

[@Blaxx112]

Very well put. Completely agree.

[@avtpro]

That was the real crucial moment to me as well. He could have been a spy or traitor, or even simply used the wand to make her stay. For a moment, I had to ask was she bidding for her freedom with meaningless trinkets just to tell him what he wanted to hear but she really let him know she cared about him specifically. It was evident when she took the leap. They captured her emotion when she was otherwise stoically and staunchly focused on her escape.

[@guilhermegigeck5946]

I have to disagree. Her realization wasn't due to terror but because she finally took notice that she wasn't alone and actually had a friend in Aries, someone that would risk himself for her. She was blinded by her own plans, and this sudden realization made their goodbyes more painful than she thought it would be but, I would claim, not any less happier.

[@an.1380]

@@guilhermegigeck5946 THIS!! I fully agree with

[@zynpkrdg]

i love emily's work, she has such a style and neat ideas, she really has a keen eye for animation and drawing. i can best describe her style as sophisticated, and i just wanted to say that here. there are so many styles out there and hers is just really elegant and pretty.

[@WhatAGuy]

God, this short captures the atmosphere of wartime so brilliantly, the characters don’t even have to mention it directly. The rumble of planes, the unsettling military presence in the building, the stricter rules about wands, all communicated in the first minute of the short! It supports the vibe set off by the enlistment flier hitting the window so well. You have a really refined taste for storytelling/worldbuilding!

[@legendarybubbles4567]

Show, not tell, at its finest!

[@DeviantRabbits]

The designs for the faces are simple, but they perfectly express the many emotions of the characters. @1:40 The Prince looks on with concern, then down with sadness, then upon hearing the scissors clipping again, they look back at Skylar, the eyes and brows soften slightly at the realization of how serious Skylar is about this and knowing that this may be the last time they see each other.

[@pokaay3163]

I LOVE 4:14. The subtle change in skylar’s expressions are pretty damn masterful. Its like what you’d see out of a ghibli film.

[@DeviantRabbits]

@@pokaay3163 Absolutely! The double blinking because they're tearing up, the trembling on their mouth, so heart breaking! But that's what makes it brilliant ~ 💙

[@Sweeney696]

The film is really beautiful, just like the style of Hayao Miyazaki's Howl's Moving Castle and Little Witch Academy.

[@Sushushh]

Youre my biggest inspiration 😭😭😭😭 this is SO AMAZING im just in love with EVRRYTHING 💖💖

[@Flicky_Clicky]

never did i think id see one of my greatest inspirations comment on another one of my biggest inspirations oh ma gah

[@lebuggo01]

@@Flicky_Clicky agreed- I love both these artists

[@yeonjihan681]

@@Flicky_Clicky samesies !!

[@CozyGhost]

Can we give a round of applause to the voice acting? The volume was just right and not overpowering the music, the sfx were really well done, I LOVE the small details in expression change- Everything made this animation so beautiful... I love that the stars were a source of magic for the mages It's incredible

[@ruscell0000]

right? i wonder what significance the kind of star or other celestial bodies have on magic? how they find their magic?? and what about the really well known stars? the death and birth of a new star? or when the sun goes up?? man I wanna know. so much potential worldbuilding.

[@SoySauce9]

@@joshyhush22 Lifeless? It's subtle so I guess you didn't catch on. It's not oscar winning but it's not terrible either.

[@toslverr]

I’m admittedly not too impressed by the voices. But everything else was amazing.

[@raindoesnotexist]

I cannot describe how much i love the colors, animation, story, voice acting and everything. It all just fit with one another. I will honestly pay to see a whole movie based on this with the exact same animation and style, says just how much i love it.

[@astrovique]

I like how @3:03 you can see Aries pull out Skylar’s wand from his sleeves. Small details like this is seen all throughout the animation and I absolutely love it! 💕

[@arkeiyan]

i saw this the instant it was uploaded, but had to wait till i was fully done with my day so i could unwind with this and im so glad i did :") the overall childlike feel of this film's aesthetic with such a bittersweet ending (full of sm potential! who knows what will happen next!) really touched my heart. im just a lil viewer of many who has been following your work for a good while, your art and storytelling evolving over time, and you never fail to take my breath away. from your older work like "across the torii" to this piece, there has always been an unyielding creativity and passion that shines through each and every work which, as an artist who has been trying to find their feet again, has been so inspiring. and now here you are! story artist at disney with a comic in the works! this short film is both a wonderful ending and beginning to a chapter and i hope to stay on this journey with you for as long as i can haha my best to everyone who contributed to this piece and as always, thank you for sharing this~

[@ameerasparkle5019]

Where is their "across the torii" work? Is it animation? I'd love to see it, but I can't find it.

[@haley9091]

Couldn’t have said it better myself💕✨

[@nekopixelgill5247]

Reasons why its good °Animation looking like its a pilot for a series (Hoping😇😇) °Voice acting (rare with indie animators) °Characters °Music Is BEAUTIFUL reminds me of howls moving castle °Everything about it Reasons why I love this animation.

[@moonieangie]

This short animation has such a fairy tale vibe. The simple character designs, the color pallet is all aesthetically pleasing. This reminds me of howls moving castles storyline for some reason. I would love to see more content from you or this story

[@loveyourlife9166]

I think it's the music (as well as the planes/magic mixture) -> also hard agree :)

[@siregne4343]

the music kinda does give off the howls moving castle vibes as well

[@duckydan2502]

whats howls moving castles, and is it good?

[@sparrowskeleton1831]

@@duckydan2502 it’s a film by Studio Ghibli and in my opinion it’s a masterpiece. It’s about a young woman named Sophie who is cursed by a witch to be an elderly woman and she must find a way to remove the curse. If you’re a fan of animation it’s definitely worth a watch. The film is adapted from a book if that’s something you’re interested in as well.

[@whiskeredwolf4861]

This is so beautiful. I love that one small scene lingering on the prince after the mage tells him that she’s leaving. The tiny shift of his expression from upset to understanding is so subtle and so well done. I love the colors and the differences between even the background characters, and the dialogue is so soft and gentle, you can really tell they’re close friends. This could be a series and I’d watch every episode. It’s so magical.

[@SoySauce9]

Your animation feels larger than it's budget despite it being a student work. The micro-expressions, the colours, voice acting, music filmmaking techniques like holding a shot. (which is basic but wow is it effective) I got immersed and invested into these characters and their world for 5 minutes. Glad to see strong animators like you amongst us! o7

[@pyrrhakim54]

The way she tries so hard to record the history from the perspective of the weak and sacrificed just makes me so sad.. and I also liked how you did not allow naive hopes about quick and instant renovation but let the heroine run away. Sometimes, for many of us, I guess, leaving the world of oppression is more urgent than changing it... we still have to live on. And it is best to have a friend who supports you despite the sadness the departure causes. Super fascinating animation. So emotional.

[@DropsteRyt]

This is magical, absolutely fantastic animation, good work to everyone involved!

[@elimartel9080]

I'm not entirely sure if it's the coloring or if I'm reading into it, but at 0:08 it looks like the mage to the left with an orange bob is weaving something about bloodied hands. Love the implication that it's not just our main girl who is seeing the atrocities going on.

[@basilb4524]

I've always looked at your illustrations for inspiration and was thrilled to see an animation in that style, but this is so much more. It's an incredibly captivating scene with wonderful animation and direction, wonderful sound design, wonderful music, and wonderful voice acting. I don't know anything about this world and characters but i'm tearing up just watching it

[@apollinares1938]

Still not over how awesome the final film looks! It was an absolute pleasure to voice act for, and to watch everything come together!!!

[@VioletteLani]

NO WAY you voice acted for this?! You did a wonderful job!

[@apollinares1938]

@@VioletteLani tysm!! I voiced the prince :)

[@VioletteLani]

​@@apollinares1938 Omg you really nailed him! The animation was amazing (Emily is my favorite artist...she's got a celebrity status in my mind lol) but the emotions really shined through because of your voice acting! You are so talented, and you guys make such an amazing team. You have to let me know when you voice act for other animations! I'd love to follow your journey. (I'm already subscribed to your channel! :)

[@cattudoggu]

You did a wonderful job! The voice is very fitting 💕💕

[@ivy2089]

you did amazing! i am very much in love w your voice lmfaooo

[@byabbya39]

I like everything of this animation I think I'm really in love with it... I especially loved the emotional shift in the silence between when she realizes her wand is gone and when he says "I'll miss you". This is SO good..

[@forsooth]

2:47 him giggling a little and asking her if shes going to miss him but not getting his answer i cant yall im ripping my heart out to not deal with this

[@Blaxx112]

Gosh I love this setup. In just 5 minutes, we understand the implied corruption of the people that govern the land, the grim time of war that is about to/currently taking place, and the endearing and trusting bond between two friends living through the gravity of it all. They're friends despite both being in contrasting positions that they didn't necessarily ask to be born into. One of them, a mage who is seen as a threat/enemy by those at the top, specifically the royal family, and is controlled because of it. And the other, a prince who is born into and raised by the same royal family with corrupted views of mages, but knows that it's wrong to do so and spends his time helping and supporting his friend in any way he can, even if it means saying goodbye. If this were a series, I'd want to the know the full story before and after the events here that take place. Watching this gave me the same kind of feelings I'd have if I was watching a Studio Ghibli film. It's a great short film and its lovely characters, world, and charming music makes me wish to see more of it.

[@potatop172]

Even little details like them cutting out the people from the cloth thing that were beneath the king to make him look more innocent is so great.

[@Quinooooo]

PLEASE PLEASE PLEAAASE MAKE THIS A SERIES, EVEN IF ITS JUST WRITTEN. THIS IS SO CUTE!!!!

[@duckychanduckychan5155]

Im definitely going to buy the book if they ever release it.

[@mikab.4838]

I love the slight changes in expression, and the bright, watercolor feel, it feels so magical! And the voice actors did a great job, their voices sound so gentle and calm. This is amazing! 💖 I hope Skylar returns one day

[@Rina2SLZ]

I don’t usually rewatch anything because it doesn’t bring the same joy as I already know the plot, but this is the first time I rewatched something more times than I can count!❤

[@shadowwolfcat13]

Everything about this short film is magnificent. The pacing, the music, the artwork, the movement. It has a magical sparkle. It captured my heart in a way I have not felt in a long time. You grasp the plot in an instant and immediately become familiar with who the characters are and how they feel even before the first lines are spoken. There is an elegant, even ballroom sense to the way they move through the scenes. It almost feels like I'm tip-toeing along with them. The scenery has been painted in a way that fills the eye, but doesn't overwhelm it. And the music, ah, the music. The voice acting is the final touch to the elaboration of the story, giving us an even more detailed picture of our duo. They are both genuinely kind souls. Even when one's hard work is being cut into pieces and the other must let his best friend go, they don't have a vile outburst, but rather accept reality for what it is and try to do the right thing. A splendid job!

[@AnimeFreakpz]

I just wanted to say how much this mini animation clip somehow inspired me so much today. I’m in my mid 20s now and I dropped out of college feeling discouraged and being too afraid that I probably won’t make it into the art industry. But this video gave me that excitement and showed me the joy that I used to have when I really loved doing art. I loved how amazing this video captured emotions and how magical the scenes and characters were. I think that’s one of the most important things I have forgotten about what art can really convey and why I really liked doing art in the first place. I’m so happy that I came across this video. I hope I am able to start to pick up my motivation and interest in art again and perhaps pursue into.

[@sandydi5967]

Ton commentaire m'as touché, j'espère de tout cœur que tu y arrives ! Good luck! (J'espère que mon commentaire sera traduit, comme le tien me l'a été hehe)

[@AnimeFreakpz]

@@sandydi5967 awwww Thank you!! 😭❤️❤️❤️I’m so happy to know that my comment made you feel that way!! And Finally!! Your comment has been translated!

[@legendarybubbles4567]

Some of the best animators out there made their best work later in life! Never give up on your dreams! If you truly love it, don’t give up what makes you happy! You don’t have to be in collage either! Some of the first animators had to teach themselves. No one starts out good, but with determination and heart, you can do it! I know you have it in you to make things that will make you, and others happy! Just enjoy being you, and having fun with your creations!

[@mmpkawaii]

You can do it! This short has also inspired me too so after so long I haven’t done art, I’m trying to start back doing it too. All the best to both of us🥰💪🏻🔥!

[@legendarybubbles4567]

@@mmpkawaii You can do this as well! I know you can do it! 😄👍🎉

[@Lukana4009]

Dear Emilymio, you dont know me - dont think you ever will. But i am sending this comment in hopes that you will read it, someday. I wish to firstly congratulate you on your thesis, and how far you seem to have moved in the world of art to becoming a storyboard artist. I wish to say thank you, for the inspiration that you have given me and hopefully many others with your previous works animatics of the pasts which now you have privated. I still remember first seeing "What a Waste of Lovely Night" and "The Other Side" Animatics in a dark part of my life and becoming truly facinated by the OC universe that you seemed to have created alongside your great artstyle and style. I am now pursuing design, no small part to you and the inspiration youve given me, and many other works in youtube and other media, while hoping i can one day get to instead move to visual arts or similar if my family gives me the chance for it. I dont know what else to say, Thank you, i suppose, for all you inadvertedly helped me with, and i truly, truly hope you live the best life that you can live. Sincerely, a quiet fan. PS: Forgive me for my bad english, it is not my first lenguage.

[@polaris699]

When Aries had Skylar's wand, my first thought was that he betrayed her to arrest her. I am so very happy I was wrong. This story is beautifully made and narrated. I love it so much!!!

[@chamii-p7248]

This is so gorgeous! I love the simplicity of the dialogue from characters which aren’t the main two; and the way the main characters speak to each other is familiar yet distant from growing tensions in the kingdom. Fantastic work!!

[@kl3321]

The way Skylar swings from a star at the end is so cool. The rich world you created, the idea of magical records being woven and then "edited" to remove anything critical of the monarchy, such a cool setting in just a few minutes. Regardless of whether you explore it more or leave it as is it was awesome to visit!

[@Chloe-fu7ig]

Absolutely gorgeous Emily!! I can’t even put into words how magical this short film is… I felt completely immersed during the entire 5:08 minutes. You truly do have a gift, thank you for sharing!! 🤍✨

[@m.gabrielle4262]

It’s a pastel daydream! I love the amount of world building that managed to speak for itself like the scene where the bottom of Skylar’s tapestry got cut off, the confiscation of her wand, the editing of what papers she had. I admire your work so much!

[@arianna2402]

Wait, I might be wrong but I thought Skylar was a girl because of their voice? Idk maybe Emily mentioned it in her livestreams because I never really watch them so

[@SHEESHAW100]

I didn't understand why they were cutting the tapestry until you pointed out that they were sepcifically cutting out the bottom part. Thanks!

[@kirin1230]

@@arianna2402 I thought Skylar was Elias's sister from the Waiting in the Wings video, but I could be wrong? I too assumed female after realising it wasn't young Elias.

[@lordotro]

I love these scenes where there is just silence, except for the ambiance. Watching the character walk past the sleeping guard or scribbling on a scroll while planes fly over the building is all it takes. It's very much like many of the scenes seen in Ghibli movies, with an amazing use of silence.

[@bookdragon7546]

Oh I love every part of this! The story, the characters, the animation and art style! Fantastic! I’d love to see more of these characters!

[@bruh-hr1mt]

that feeling of wanting to be free, of wanting to have control over your own life and circumstances, to say things and not be censored... and its' (unfortunate) conflict with the love you carry for the place you've lived, for the people you've loved, for the times you've spent on that specific part of the earth; when you have to leave your home.. this piece captures it beautifully

[@WispDraws]

GOSHHHHH THE EXPRESSION CHANGE FROM LAUGHTER TO SADNESS MAKES ME CRY EACH TIME I SEE IT!! UR WORK IS GORGIOUS AND PLEASE TEACH ME UR WAYYYY EVEN THE VOICE ACTING IS SO DARN AMAZING!!!!! I HAVE THE WEAVED THEME ON 2 OF MY PLAYLISTS! I LISTENED TO IT ON LOOP FOR DAYS!!!!

[@reedraw1917]

4:19 the use of weight and color in this animation is spectacularly done and this shot is so perfectly executed it’s pure eye candy!!

[@hannahchristine5240]

I wish this were a full movie. It’s so magical and really makes me think of Studio Ghibli movies but with its own unique take. It’s so magical. The music, the characters, the plot. I love everything about this and want to see more of this world.

[@harryathornton4463]

A year later and, no exaggeration, this might be one of my favourite pieces of art ever. I can't convey how much I adore, and continue to love, this short film. Thank you so much for sharing your work!

[@tinynamu1335]

I want this to be a full movie 🥺😭 you and everyone who worked on this piece of art did exceptionally well! I’m in awe and sad because how am I supposed to let go of this storyline, the characters and that attention to details. this magical little world you created enchanted me… thank you

[@rebekahk9709]

I love how their magic connects to the stars! This is an amazing piece, and I'm sure I'll watch it many more times. The colors, animation, and dialogue is so lovely, and I love that last line, "I'll have you all demoted." XD I could watch hours of Under This Luminous Sky!

[@almabeginns8150]

How the wand is connected to a different star for every different person is just beautiful

[@ashleypisarts]

This is such an intriguing story! I want to learn more about this world’s society and the mages, and I’d also like to see Skylar’s journey after she ran away. Also, the art and animation is absolutely gorgeous. Incredible job to your team!!

[@angee7024]

I can't express enough how much I loved it. Stunning art, visuals, great storytelling, and this short moment when we're not sure if Prince is still on ''our'' side, loved it, really amazing piece of work!!!

[@nr1896]

That part was SOOO good

[@Sleep1ng_Panda]

THE TIMING WAS AMAZING HOLY COW, it was just long enough, it wasnt held long enough to allow my thoughts to ponder, but long enough to let me fully understand what was going on in the moment!!!! having all that extra breathing room made this peace oddly comforting, and it totally fits the vibe of heading off to find freedom ^^ I love this!

[@lolli_popples]

I absolutely adore the way the magic works and looks. Threads coming off the stars. It feels like we skimmed the surface of a rich and deep story.

[@yaox7052]

Absolutely blown away, this work whisks you off to another world and enchants the soul. Always looking forward to what you’re able to conjure up next!

[@sakurasweetkiki4380]

I want to forget this so that I can watch it again as if it’s the first time. It is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. It’s giving Howl,s Moving Castle with all the magic and the war going on. The style the story the music everything is fantastic!❤

[@mo_dragons19]

i love the hair/cape in the wind at 4:08 and the sparklies

[@nelmae6026]

This is so beautiful! The details here are so beautiful. That purple-haired girl's tapestry portrayed the tyrant king standing on top of the people suffering under his rule. And it's shown that they're inside an open flower, which means that maybe when it closes, the king's image looks lovely and elegant, but when it opens, the true horrors unravel. Oddly, this reminds me of a show named Merlin (BBC). Characters, especially the prince's bestfriend who secretly has magic, tells him that one day, when he is king, things will be different. I just like to point out this comparison. The prince from this animated short isn't controlling that he takes the wands of others. I've been watching your animatics and tried to study from them. And this animation, it's just so fantastic. I don't know how to voice it further but really, well done to you and to the others who made it with you.

[@TheDragonWhimsy]

You could make an entire Studio Ghibli film out of this. And that is my highest compliment for any animated story. Well done! In less than 5 minutes you built a world and a pair of characters I care about and made me wonder what happens next. Great work!

[@lylanormand6340]

The animation is absolutely incredible but can we talk about the MUSIC for a second??? Like oh my gosh it's so magical especially at 3:30 it's just gorgeous. Massive props to Sebastian Reuten, I've got to check out his other work!

[@fleeingmoment479]

That "I'll miss you," makes my eyes water. Also, I wonder what else she meant when she said "You know what it's like for people like me." :( Edit: okay now I know about the on going war and restrictions being made in the story, I definitely am in awe of the storytelling.) Really love Skylar's expression when she glances back, laughs, as a final goodbye before finally swinging to freedom.

[@anastasiakrieger8822]

She will return than hes king things are better she write him so its not a goodybe

[@EspyMelly]

Pretty masterful storytelling, nothing overly complex but it's amazing with how naturally it explains the world in a tiny amount of time with zero narration or awkwardly expository dialogue. Within the span of less than 2 minutes we already know basically all we need about the setting and the characters without feeling pandered to.

[@Saltsour]

The style is so simple yet gives that unique feel of.....watercolour paintings? Character designs are also very lovely, I hope this gets more views because it deserves a lot more than the current 64k

[@VerbenaHA]

Stories with characters that make promises to return home after "things are better" absolutely break my heart. Aries did the right thing, helping Skylar leave. The colors and backgrounds are BEAUTIFUL, well done!

[@gabbyg7021]

I’m gonna be completely honest here don’t mind me but This is probably my favorite thing on KZbin:) I’m telling you the amount of times I’ve come back here is embarrassing but it gives me so much comfort! Why is this so dang beautiful😭

[@misxa6344]

Same, I watched this multiple times now. The art and music is so beautiful and gives me inspiration for my own works. ❤

[@lauwy7777]

I think I've watched it dozens of times One of my favourite works on KZbin And even one of my favourite works ever

[@MANGLORIOUS]

So many things about this are reminding me of Studio Ghibli, the music, the visuals, the composition of the shots. It’s beautiful!

[@voiceotaku5802]

yees i feelt that too, when i watched it the moving castle got to my mind

[@joshhart4149]

I've been thinking about this for the past couple weeks, it just won't leave my mind. This is so beautiful, both in the storytelling, animation, and art. I would watch a feature-length movie about this world

[@inosuke-slays]

I honestly need a sequel to this or even a full movie.

[@Cat-therineDraws]

This looks absolutely incredible! The sound and voice acting sounds great! The detail in the art and animation looks fantastically made! Everything is made with such detail and the world seems so interesting! The colors look so gorgeously made too! It rlly adds to the different scenes and atmospheres! This is an absolute masterpiece ✨

[@SarcasticJohn]

A 5-minute film made me cry harder than some year long series. Very well done you. I'd pay money to see films like this.

[@Varshu_gg]

What a banquet for the eyes and ears.Made this night a pure bliss.

[@Оля-щ8с6ф]

Во время просмотра не покидало чувство, что смотрю старые работы студии Гибли, чарующая сказка, приятная музыка и реальная химия между персонажами. Прекрасная работа, я бы с удовольствием посмотрела полноценный мультфильм о них. Спасибо всем, кто работал над этой короткометражкой.

[@kartoha4295]

Да, тоже самое!

[@queryngeheilt5045]

Это жемчужина.. в океане анимации

[@robbierom3868]

Warning: long comment. I believe this is one of the best animations I've seen on KZbin. At first it was the flawless technical appeal - the cute art, the subtle expressions, etc. Then I realized the depth under this seemingly simple story. Gotta post my interpretation here. Sorry if I sound like an English teacher in this comment. I think this animation discusses more than 'monarch' as stated in the description… Firstly, War Propaganda at the beginning - it immediately reminded me of 1984, to be honest. ‘War is Peace’. What is a better way to increase control on society than war? Whether there IS a real one or not. Then, it’s the guard pulling back Skylar’s hair and takes her wand - the first action reveals the oppressive nature of the society presented in the animation, while wand is a kind of weapon. Why are they taking the wand away? Weapon control. Why? To prevent ‘trouble-making’, of course. From Skylar and Aries’s conversation, we can tell the oppressive governing methods came from Aries’s father, the ruler of the kingdom. The editing part is the most interesting scene in my opinion. The word ‘edit’ first appeared when Skylar mentioned how ‘they are editing [the records] more and more’. Why are the wand-keeping records are being edited? If anything happens, people can’t complain or do something about it, I guess. Then, we see the room labeled ‘edit’ where Skylar delivers her work, only to see her work being brutally cut apart. Notice how the ‘editors’ also have a ‘to-do list’, implying they are editing according to some standards. Then the curtains are closed in front of Skylar and Aries. In my theory, the ‘editing’ means censorship. Skylar artwork is edited mercilessly as the censor obviously has NO TASTE in beauty at all. They are merely minions of the cracking old bureaucracy machine. Not only the government censors people’s artwork, it also hides the fact that they are doing the dirty job. Before the scene ends, Skylar expresses her intention to steal the wand to Aries, an act of rebellion. This leads to the next scene where Skylar encounters Aries. As Skylar talks to Aries during her find, we discover more and more about their personalities. Skylar is heavily unsatisfied with the kingdom she lives in. Since the first conversation, we have heard her complaints and witnessed what’s going on with the propaganda and censorship. It’s in the second conversation that she reveals the core conflict between her and the kingdom. ‘Things never change around here.’ ‘You know what’s it like for people like me!’ Her pursuit for freedom is unfit for the rigorous, strict atmosphere in the kingdom. She plans to escape with her wand. Aries, on the other hand, is not fully convinced with Skylar’s ideas. We see his dismissal towards Skylar’s monologue. He also asks if Skylar is going to ‘miss things here’, a request for her to consider staying. From his initial dialogues, we know he understands some of the problems with the kingdom (otherwise, how he came to befriend with the whining Skylar?) Yet he doesn’t think things are that worse. After all, he’s the prince. He’s the privileged one. That explains why he takes Skylar’s wand beforehand - he was going to sabotage Skylar’s plan. However, as Skylar stares at Aries in disbelief, realizing she’s being back-stabbed, Aries is also struggling in his mind. Finally, he realizes he should let his friend go. I believe this is the climax of the drama. Does it make sense if Aries simply took the wand as a joke? No. I believe he has changed his mind in that very moment, and that’s what makes it so touching. His conscience wins. Even though he’s still not very convinced, he chooses to respect his friend’s choice. “And someday, when you’re King, when things are better, I’ll return.” - when the open-minded Aries becomes the new king, he’ll probably reform his kingdom to ‘make things better’. That’s when the freedom-loving Aries can come back. “If you would have me” - but that’s not certain. Maybe Aries will change his mind as he grows up and becomes just like his father, leading to an end to their friendship. After all, it’s up to Aries. The last line - the guard threatens to demote the two. This confuses me a bit, because Aries has already exiled herself and escaped. How do you demote someone like that? And about demoting the prince - I’m not sure if that’s what the guard can do, but it may imply something like a coup or power struggle. Perhaps ‘demote’ is a lighter word replacing something that implies heavier consequences, I suppose? The final expression on Skylar’s face is just. Amazing. I’m speechless. TL;DR - a brilliant dystopian fable in the form of a sweet fairy tale. The clash between two genres is just sweet. Emily, you’re a genius.

[@caitlynlagmay2024]

Actually the one who said "I'll have you all demoted" was the prince towards the two guards. That's why Skylar laughs after.

[@robbierom3868]

@@caitlynlagmay2024 Oopsie, thanks for correcting me.

[@mistea]

i love your interpretation of Skylar and Aries' relationship but I'd also like to give my two cents as someone who's absolutely fallen in love with these characters, I think Aries took Skylar's wand as a precaution, just in case she got caught or couldn't make it, because there's no way they would harm the prince that easily, and Aries has seemed really considerate of his friend in the whole short, he understands why she has to leave but you can tell that he cares about her and wants his sentiment returned, through out the whole thing you see how Skylar is focused on one goal and that's getting out she doesn't think about the people she's leaving behind or how there might be someone who will truly miss her, so when after Skylar has gone on a whole spiel about how and where shes going to go only for Aries to remind her "I'll miss you" is the moment I think Skylar realizes that this person cares about her, reminding her to not forget them and that she'll write to him and someday return, everything else after that was pretty spot on!! and after Aries saying he'll demote all the guards that are trying to get Skylar just proves that perhaps he may be different after all.

[@polilipavelwhite4641]

I watched your work a year ago. With a translation into my language . The guys adapted the translation well. I was very touched by the moment when the heroine looks at her friend who was holding a wand , but then says. ,I will miss you " and when tears appear on it . I got them too, and I'm still listening to music

[@Itz_Deet]

The sheer work in time put in to this.. it’s amazing Inlove the color palette, the watercolor feeling, the voice ,acting storytelling, and music. Everything just seems so incredibly real and I love the character interactions.