Rejected Poster

Rejected 2000

★ 7.2226 votes9 min📅 2000-07-25

Rejected (2000) is a bizarre yet brilliant animated short that showcases the unhinged creativity of its creator, Don Hertzfeldt. This nine-minute comedy gem parodies television commercials with rapid-fire absurdity, blending surreal humor with a darkly comedic edge.

Director: Don Hertzfeldt

Cast

Robert May
Guy #1 / Guy #2 / Fluffy Guy / Ticks Announcer / Left Hand Characters (voice)
Jennifer Nyholm
Mother (voice)
Don Hertzfeldt
Don Hertzfeldt
Spoon Guy / Banana / Queen of France (voice)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rejected (2000) about?

Rejected (2000) follows a series of bizarre, failed animated commercials that spiral into madness, revealing the creator's crumbling grip on reality. The short blends dark humor with surreal animation, turning rejected ads into a commentary on creativity and rejection. Think of it as a chaotic love letter to the absurdity of the creative process.

Who directed Rejected?

Don Hertzfeldt directed Rejected. A pioneer of independent animation, Hertzfeldt is known for his unique style and uncompromising vision, which shines through in this cult classic.

Who stars in Rejected?

The short stars Robert May, Jennifer Nyholm, and Don Hertzfeldt himself, who voices the majority of the characters with deadpan humor.

Is Rejected (2000) worth watching?

If you enjoy experimental animation that pushes boundaries, Rejected is absolutely worth your time. While it doesn't have a traditional rating, its reputation as a cult favorite speaks volumes. The film's blend of comedy and existential dread makes it a standout for fans of offbeat cinema.

How long is Rejected?

Rejected runs for 9 minutes, making it a quick but unforgettable experience.

About Rejected (2000) — Don Hertzfeldt's Absurd Animated Masterpiece Explained

Rejected (2000) is a bizarre yet brilliant animated short that showcases the unhinged creativity of its creator, Don Hertzfeldt. This nine-minute comedy gem parodies television commercials with rapid-fire absurdity, blending surreal humor with a darkly comedic edge. The film's disjointed yet oddly captivating narrative feels like a fever dream, where failed ads take on a life of their own, revealing the creator's unraveling sanity in real time. The atmosphere is chaotic yet strangely endearing, making it a cult favorite for those who crave offbeat, unfiltered animation. Hertzfeldt's signature doodle-style animation brings the madness to life, while the deadpan voice acting by Robert May and Jennifer Nyholm adds an extra layer of unsettling charm.

Often described as a precursor to his later works, Rejected (2000) stands out for its sheer unpredictability and fearless embrace of the absurd. The film doesn't just mock advertising—it dissects the fragility of creativity when met with indifference. For fans of avant-garde animation or anyone who enjoys their comedy with a side of existential dread, this short is a must-watch. Its legacy lies in how it turns rejection into an art form, proving that sometimes the weirdest ideas are the most unforgettable.