Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski have achieved a significant milestone in their careers. They recently won the Oscar for Best Animated Short Film at the 98th Academy Awards for their captivating work, The Girl Who Cried Pearls. This film is a proud production of the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) and was honored on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
About the Film
The Girl Who Cried Pearls is a stop-motion animated fable that explores themes of sorrow and greed. The narrative centers on a girl overwhelmed by her emotions and the boy who loves her, revealing how greed can corrupt even the purest hearts. The film has a runtime of 17 minutes and 37 seconds and showcases the talents of a distinguished creative team.
Key Contributors
- Colm Feore – Voice Actor
- Patrick Watson – Music Composer
- Brigitte Henry – Artistic Director
- Olivier Calvert – Sound Designer
A Remarkable Journey
This accolade marks the first Oscar win for this Montreal-based animation duo. Previously, Lavis and Szczerbowski received their first Oscar nomination for their 2007 short film, Madame Tutli-Putli. Their collaboration with the NFB spans over two decades and includes multiple acclaimed projects.
Celebrating Achievements
In their acceptance, Lavis and Szczerbowski expressed gratitude towards their artistic community. They acknowledged the support received from friends, family, and the National Film Board of Canada, which has been instrumental in their creative journey. Suzanne Guèvremont, NFB Chairperson, praised their achievement, highlighting its significance for Canada and its film industry.
Film Availability
The Girl Who Cried Pearls can be streamed for free on various platforms including NFB.ca, YouTube, and the NFB apps. Crave subscribers can also access the film in English. In Europe and North Africa, the film is available in French on Arte.
Noteworthy Statistics
The journey of The Girl Who Cried Pearls has included participation in over 45 film festivals, garnering 14 awards and acknowledgments since its premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June 2025.
Legacy of NFB Films
The NFB has a rich history at the Oscars, boasting 12 wins and 79 nominations. The Girl Who Cried Pearls stands out as only the second stop-motion NFB film to win the Oscar for Best Animated Short Film, a remarkable feat akin to Co Hoedeman’s timeless work, The Sand Castle.
This Oscar win for Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski not only celebrates their talent but also underscores the vibrant creative landscape fostered by the National Film Board of Canada.
