GROUNDED

Animation, Short, Comedy, Drama, Animation, All-Ages, Non-Dialogue, Mental Health, Anxiety

New Zealand

2026

Runtime, min

As dawn breaks, a loveliness of ladybirds take to the sky… all except Bug. Left behind and unable to fly, Bug and a sympathetic Spider wrestle against an invisible weight that feels heavier than gravity alone. Told without dialogue, GROUNDED is a bright yet tender animated short about feeling stuck and the quiet power of emotional support.

Director:

Chris Callus

Selections and Awards:

Vista Foundation 48Hours - National / Grand Finals Wellington October 25, 2025 National Grand Champion Winner New Zealand Vista Foundation 48Hours - Regional / Wellington Finals Wellington September 18, 2025 Best Animation Winner New Zealand

REVIEWS: