A Spark Story

About A Spark Story

A Spark Story (2021) is a feature-length documentary that takes an intimate look at Pixar’s SparkShorts program and the creatives who bring these animated shorts to life. The movie provides an immersive view into the creative culture of Pixar as new storytellers are given the opportunity to realize their visions. While focusing on films like "Float" and "Wind", A Spark Story explicates the highs and lows of production, and the complex nature of balancing storytelling goals and the intricate art of animation.

Making / Production

The movie is directed by Jason Sterman and Leanne Dare, and produced by Sterman, Brian McGinn and David Gelb. All are co-founders of Supper Club production studio. A Spark Story has been made in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios and follows the journey of different directors, putting together everything from concept art to the final animation.

Actors

• Steven Clay Hunter as Himself: An animator at Pixar, he makes his directorial debut with the short “Float”. Hunter gives a touching portrayal of the struggles and thrills involved in the strenuous process of filmmaking.
• Edwin Chang as Himself: Edwin is another Pixar animator who becomes a director with the short “Wind”. His depiction adds another layer of depth to the exploration of the creative process.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie marks the first documentary film about Pixar's short film program, offering exclusive insight into the creative dynamics of one of the world's most renowned animation studios.
• The directors highlighted in the documentary, Steven Clay Hunter and Edwin Chang, have been Pixar employees for over two decades before getting a chance to direct their own films.

Quotes

• “It’s not always pretty. It’s not always perfect. But somehow, someway, you cross that finish line.” - Steven Clay Hunter, while referring to the arduous process of filmmaking.
• "It's the ordinary that's extraordinary." - Edwin Chang, on his perception about animation storytelling.

Music, Soundtrack

• The evocative soundtrack for "A Spark Story" uses quiet, soulful tunes to underline the deeper emotional aspects of the storytelling process.
• The background score is instrumental and blends seamlessly with the narrative, never overshadowing the core elements of the story.