Either a Bird or an Animal 1984
"Based on a Mongolian tale."
In *Either a Bird or an Animal* (1984), Vladimir Pekar crafts a poignant animated fable about identity and belonging, drawn from a Mongolian folk tale. This nine-minute short film follows a bat torn between two worlds, never quite fitting in as either a bird or a mammal.
Director: Vladimir Pekar
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Either a Bird or an Animal (1984) about?
This animated short tells the story of a bat struggling to choose between being a bird or an animal, ultimately finding itself alone. Based on a Mongolian folk tale, it uses the bat's dilemma to explore themes of belonging and self-discovery in a gentle, introspective way.
Who directed Either a Bird or an Animal?
The film was directed by Vladimir Pekar, known for his work in animation that blends folklore with emotional resonance.
Who stars in Either a Bird or an Animal?
The key cast includes Natalya Gundareva, who brought the animated bat's journey to life with expressive visuals.
Is Either a Bird or an Animal (1984) worth watching?
While modest in length, this underrated animated short offers a thoughtful take on identity, backed by gentle animation. Its poetic approach makes it a hidden gem for fans of reflective, folk-inspired storytelling.
How long is Either a Bird or an Animal?
The runtime for Either a Bird or an Animal is 9 minutes.
About Either a Bird or an Animal (1984) — A Bat's Loneliness in a Folk Tale Gem
In *Either a Bird or an Animal* (1984), Vladimir Pekar crafts a poignant animated fable about identity and belonging, drawn from a Mongolian folk tale. This nine-minute short film follows a bat torn between two worlds, never quite fitting in as either a bird or a mammal. The gentle melancholy of the story unfolds against a backdrop that blends folklore with subtle emotional depth, exploring themes of loneliness and self-discovery. Natalya Gundareva's expressive animation breathes life into the tale, evoking a dreamlike quality that lingers long after the credits roll.
The bat's solitary journey becomes a metaphor for the universal search for place and purpose, rendered in delicate visuals that emphasize the beauty of impermanence. Pekar's direction balances whimsy with introspection, inviting viewers to reflect on what it means to belong—whether to the skies above or the earth below. It's a quiet yet powerful reminder that sometimes, the spaces between categories hold their own kind of magic.
Available to stream or download on select platforms, this understated gem is perfect for fans of thoughtful, handcrafted animation.