Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, directors of the highly acclaimed Netflix animated film ‘Over the Moon’, are receiving praise for their bold approach in creating a movie that breaks stereotypes and celebrates female representation. The movie, which was released on October 23, has already garnered a huge fan base and is being hailed as a breakthrough in the world of animation.
In an interview with Variety, Kang and Appelhans revealed that their main goal in making ‘Over the Moon’ was to create something new and different, both in terms of storytelling and music. The duo, who have previously worked on films such as ‘Coraline’ and ‘The Little Prince’, wanted to challenge themselves and push the boundaries of traditional animated films.
One of the most refreshing aspects of ‘Over the Moon’ is its strong female protagonist, Fei Fei. Played by Cathy Ang, Fei Fei is a determined and ambitious young girl who embarks on a journey to the moon to prove the existence of the legendary Moon Goddess, Chang’e. Kang and Appelhans wanted to break away from the typical damsel in distress trope and showcase a strong, independent female character who can take charge and make her own destiny.
“It was important for us to show that girls can be just as capable and brave as boys, and that they too can go on adventures and achieve great things,” Kang shared in the interview. Fei Fei’s character has already struck a chord with audiences, especially young girls, who are looking for more representation and diversity in animated films.
Another aspect of the movie that sets it apart from others is its unique blend of music and animation. ‘Over the Moon’ features original songs written by Christopher Curtis, Marjorie Duffield, and Helen Park, which seamlessly blend with the stunning visuals and storytelling. The directors shared that they wanted the music to feel like it was a natural part of the storytelling and not just an addition.
“We wanted the music to enhance the emotional journey of the characters and help the audience connect with them on a deeper level,” Appelhans explained. The songs have already become fan-favorites, with many praising the catchy tunes and heartfelt lyrics.
Apart from its groundbreaking female representation and music, ‘Over the Moon’ also has a powerful message of grief and healing. The movie explores the themes of loss and finding hope in the face of tragedy, which is especially relevant in today’s world. Kang and Appelhans wanted to create a story that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impact on the audience.
“We hope that ‘Over the Moon’ can bring some comfort and healing to those who are going through a difficult time, especially during these challenging times,” Kang shared. The heartfelt message of the movie has resonated with audiences, making it a must-watch for families and individuals alike.
The success of ‘Over the Moon’ is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the talented team behind it. From the directors to the animators, every person involved has put their heart and soul into creating a truly unique and groundbreaking film.
As the movie continues to receive praise and love from viewers all around the world, Kang and Appelhans are grateful for the opportunity to bring their vision to life. They hope that ‘Over the Moon’ will inspire other filmmakers to think outside the box and create more diverse and inclusive stories.
“We are so proud of what we have accomplished with ‘Over the Moon’ and we hope that it can be a stepping stone towards more representation and diversity in animated films,” Appelhans concluded.
With its stunning animation, heartfelt story, and powerful message, ‘Over the Moon’ is a must-watch for anyone looking for a unique and uplifting cinematic experience. Kang and Appelhans have truly succeeded in their mission to create something new and inspiring, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.