+14: The Rebel of Soviet Cartoons

Looking at the early films of Priit Pärn, Estonian iconoclast.

… And Plays Tricks

Happy Thursday! This is the 14th bonus issue of the Animation Obsessive newsletter, and our first December edition. To our new members — thank you for joining. We hope you’ll enjoy your time with us behind the scenes.

Our issue today looks at one of the most influential animators of the entire Soviet era: Priit Pärn. An Estonian artist, Pärn would spread his bizarre style around the world, inspiring animators like Kōji Yamamura and even the team behind Rugrats.

Pärn was a rebel in the USSR, frequently battling censors to get his films released. Here, we’re looking at his three earliest projects as a director — where he first forged his techniques and first came into conflict with the officials.

Enjoy!