The Cuddlies family is a colorful, lovable, and joyful group living in their own little world. In this short story, everything is ready for the annual family photo, until a small triangle suddenly appears. At first, the family is taken aback by his sharp edges, but when they notice his sadness, they warmly invite him to join them.

This short animation was created as a semester project, giving me complete creative freedom within a thirty-second time frame. My goal was to tell a lighthearted story that brings a smile to the viewer’s face. I designed the family’s characters using rounded shapes to emphasize warmth and harmony. In contrast, the triangular character introduces both visual and narrative tension, ultimately becoming the hero of the story as he embarks on a small but meaningful journey.

Credits

Design, 3D, Edit: Luisa Eesmann

Title Cards Animation: Quinten Delahaye

Sound: Hofkapellmeister Berlin

Character Design

Debbie 

Debbie is a caring and thoughtful mom who is really loving towards her family. She is loyal, reliable, and considerate. When there is a fight between family members she is the first one to get the harmony back in place. She is most happy when everyone around her is happy. Of course sometimes she has to discipline her children, but she tries to do it in the most gentle way possible.

Don

Don is very kindhearted and patient. His humble and openminded attitude makes him stand out as very approachable to everyone around him. He is not very decisive and relies on the reassuring approval of his wife, because he knows that she'll know what's best.

Cade

Cade is the big brother and often knows better than his younger sibling. That's why he thinks it's funny when his brother messes up things that he has already mastered (or so he thinks). He is a curious and imaginative child that loves to explore the world around him everyday. That's why he is going to always ask a ton of questions.

Plum

Plum is the youngest member of the family and also the loudest. He does not like a quiet room, so he'll make sure to break the silence. He is carefree and playful and loves to act out his excitement. Boredom is his least favorite emotion to feel and a good way to make that feeling go away is definitely to annoy his older brother. Works every time!

Storyboard