Once Upon a Time

About This Movie

Once Upon a Time (1957) is a curious piece of animation that feels both dreamlike and surreal. The characters are quirky—the oddball pair wandering through this abstract landscape is captivating, and there's a certain rawness to the animation style that keeps it feeling fresh. The pacing has a leisurely rhythm, allowing you to absorb the unique visuals and the strange narrative twists. Themes of identity and belonging are woven throughout, making it more than just a simple story. It’s not polished, but that’s part of its charm. The practical effects have a handmade quality, which adds to the overall distinctiveness of the film, making it stand out in the vast sea of mid-century animation.

Once Upon a Time has had a rather limited release history, primarily circulating on VHS and some rare screenings on film festivals. The scarcity of physical formats makes it a notable find for collectors, especially those interested in niche animation. Interest has been growing among enthusiasts who appreciate its unconventional style and thematic depth, as it diverges from more commercial animation of its time.