Once Upon a Line

About This Movie

Once Upon a Line is an interesting piece from 1968, a time when experimental animation was really starting to explore what could be done with the medium. You've got this character, kind of lost on this line that just keeps shifting, which gives the film this unique visual style and atmosphere. It's not just about the narrative, but the feel of being caught in this constant flux, which I think speaks to the anxieties of the era. The animation, though, is what really stands out—charming but with that rough grad-student edge. It's a peek into the mind of Jeremy Kagan before he went on to bigger things, and there's something kind of raw and honest about it all.

Once Upon a Line is a rare gem, particularly for those interested in early student animation. Released on a limited format, finding a decent copy can be quite a challenge. Its ASIFA award highlights its significance in the animation community and collectors often seek it out for its historical value, especially as a representation of the grad school experience in the late '60s. The film remains an interesting conversation starter among enthusiasts of the medium.