Nicolás P. Villarreal Unveils New Animated Short Film
After five years of dedicated production, Courage or Destiny, the latest animated short from ON/OFF creator Nicolás P. Villarreal, is set to premiere at the end of March 2025.
Exploring Choices and Destiny
This compelling film follows a young boy as he grapples with his future and the pivotal decisions that will shape his destiny. It poses a thought-provoking question: “What if the visions of your future were actually memories from your past?”
Inspired by Racing History
Courage or Destiny draws inspiration from the dramatic events of the 1955 Grand Prix of Argentina, where legendary Mercedes Benz F1 driver Juan Manuel Fangio endured severe burns to secure victory. The film features three distinct visual styles: a chronological color sequence, vibrant fluorescent segments, and black-and-white sequences presented in reverse order, creating a narrative loop that reflects the cyclical nature of an F1 driver’s life.
Life-Changing Decisions
“The film addresses the tough, life-altering decisions we sometimes face,” Villarreal explains. “These choices may bring pain and hardship, yet deep down, we know they are essential for progress.”
He adds, “I have always admired individuals who exhibit passion, commitment, and a strong work ethic. They inspire me with their dedication to their craft. Juan Manuel Fangio epitomized this spirit.”
Influences from Global Cinema
The short film has been influenced by notable French and Japanese filmmakers, including Hayao Miyazaki, Satoshi Kon, and Katsuhiro Otomo, alongside concepts from August Ferdinand Möbius.
“My favorite films are those that linger in my mind, prompting reflection and inspiration,” Villarreal shares. “I hope Courage or Destiny resonates with those who pursue their goals with unwavering passion and commitment.”
A Milestone in Villarreal’s Career
This marks Villarreal’s fifth animated film and seventh short overall. His previous work, ON/OFF, holds the Guinness World Record for the most awards won by a short film, boasting an impressive 2,200 international accolades. He is also the founder of Red Clover Studios and serves as the Executive Director of the Visual Development and 2D Animation Department at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, where he graduated with honors in 2002.
Source: Nicolás P. Villarreal
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L’Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
Persons
Nicolás P. Villarreal, Juan Manuel Fangio, Hayao Miyazaki, Satoshi Kon, Katsuhiro Otomo, August Ferdinand Möbius, L’Wren
Company Names
Red Clover Studios, Academy of Art University
Titles
Courage or Destiny, ON/OFF
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