Dash Shaw Brings Miyazaki Magic to Animated 'Unknownia

In a world where mythical creatures and hidden treasures await discovery, a new animated adventure is set to captivate audiences of all ages. Dash Shaw, the visionary director behind the critically acclaimed film Cryptozoo, is back with a new project that echoes the timeless magic of Studio Ghibli's Hayao Miyazaki. Unknownia, a thrilling animated tale of bravery, friendship, and self-discovery, boasts an all-star voice cast, including Tim Roth, Barbara Sukowa, and Angeliki Papoulia. At its core, Unknownia tells the story of little Rory, a young girl who embarks on a perilous quest to save her father, who has vanished while searching for a legendary treasure. As Rory navigates the treacherous landscape, she encounters a group of enigmatic beings known as The Shapes, who possess the power to shape-shift and guide her on her journey. With the help of a wise-cracking weasel and a motley crew of allies, Rory must confront her fears and learn to trust herself in order to rescue her father and uncover the secrets of Unknownia. Shaw's inspiration for the film stems from his own childhood fascination with mythology and the unknown. "I've always been drawn to stories that explore the boundaries between reality and fantasy," he explains. "Unknownia is a film that celebrates the power of imagination and the idea that even the most impossible-seeming worlds can be real if we believe in them." The voice cast for Unknownia is a veritable who's who of industry heavyweights, each bringing their unique talents to the table. Tim Roth, known for his nuanced performances in films like Reservoir Dogs and The Hateful Eight, lends his voice to the role of Rory's father, a seasoned adventurer who has lost his way. Barbara Sukowa, a German actress celebrated for her work in films like Berlin Alexanderplatz and The Lives of Others, brings gravity and depth to the role of the wise and enigmatic Shape, who serves as Rory's guide on her journey. Angeliki Papoulia, a Greek actress and musician, rounds out the cast as the voice of Rory herself, infusing the character with a sense of wonder and determination. The film's themes of bravery, friendship, and self-discovery are sure to resonate with audiences of all ages. "Unknownia is a film that reminds us that we all have the power to shape our own destinies," says Shaw. "It's a story that encourages us to be brave, to take risks, and to trust in ourselves and others." With its richly imagined world, memorable characters, and timeless themes, Unknownia is poised to become a modern classic of animation. As the film prepares to hit theaters, fans of Cryptozoo and Studio Ghibli alike are sure to be eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Shaw's ongoing exploration of the human experience. As the animation industry continues to evolve and push the boundaries of what is possible, Unknownia stands as a testament to the power of imagination and creativity. With its unique blend of fantasy and adventure, this film is sure to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression on the world of animation.