## Grammy Winner Cecile McLorin Salvant’s Musical ‘Ogresse’ Unveils Dazzling First Look
June 9, 2024
Acclaimed stop-motion maestro Claude Barras (“My Life as a Zucchini,” “Savages!”) joins forces with three-time Grammy Award winner Cecile McLorin Salvant and Belgian animator Lia Bertels to present “Ogresse,” a captivating musical film that blends poignant storytelling with stunning animation.
A Tragicomic Musical Masterpiece
“Ogresse” is a unique adaptation of Salvant’s celebrated stage show, which has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut in 2019. The film seamlessly weaves together Salvant’s distinctive jazz vocals with Bertels’ captivating 2D animation and Barras’ breathtaking stop-motion sequences, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience.
A Tale of Love, Loss, and Identity
Set against a mystical forest backdrop, “Ogresse” follows the poignant journey of an ostracized ogress who longs for acceptance. Her path intertwines with a young hunter who seeks to conquer her heart through love or combat. Through a series of hauntingly beautiful musical numbers, the film explores themes of toxic romance, self-acceptance, and the enduring power of hope.
A Collaborative Effort of Visionaries
This ambitious project brings together an extraordinary team of creatives. Led by Miyu Productions, the studio behind last year’s Annecy Animation Festival winner “Chicken for Linda!,” “Ogresse” boasts a stellar lineup of co-producers, including John Carlin, Belgium’s Umedia, and Luxembourg’s Melusine Productions. French distributor KMBO will handle the film’s domestic release.
A Buzzworthy Title on the Rise
“Ogresse” has already generated significant buzz in the animation industry. At the 2023 Mifa pitch session, the project secured two prestigious awards. Its presentation at the recent Cartoon Movie co-production forum in March 2024 further captivated attendees, leaving them eager for its release.
Quotes from the Creative Team
“I am deeply inspired by Lia Bertels’ artistic style and Cécile McLorin Salvant’s extraordinary stage show,” enthuses Barras. “Together, we have crafted a modern and feminist folktale that explores profoundly personal themes through the power of music.”
Emmanuel-Alain Raynal and Pierre Baussaron of Miyu express their excitement over the project’s potential: “This exceptional film showcases the transformative possibilities of animation in contemporary storytelling. We are honored to collaborate with such a gifted team and anticipate ‘Ogresse’ connecting with audiences on a global scale.”
Key Details
* Production: Underway
* Studios: Miyu Productions, Umedia, Melusine Productions, Helium Films
* Director: Cécile McLorin Salvant and Lia Bertels
* Distributor: KMBO (France)