Feb. 04, 2021|Russia|88 Min.|Not Rated
Genre: Animation
Description: Ginger’s Tale (Russian: Огонёк-Огниво, romanized: Ogonyok-Ognivo) is a 2020 Russian animated fantasy musical film directed by Konstantin Shchekin. The script was co-written by Tatyana Ilina and Ekaterina Mikhailova. Produced by Vverh Animation Studio, it marked the studio’s second and final animated project before its closure in 2021. The film is a modern adaptation of the 1835 Danish fairy tale *The Tinderbox*, with the story crafted through traditional frame-by-frame animation.
The plot centers on Ginger, a loyal companion to a potter named Potter. When Potter discovers a magical artifact called the Stone of Fire, which has the power to turn stones into treasure, he becomes entangled in a dangerous quest. As Potter loses his memory and draws closer to a queen also pursuing the artifact, Ginger must step up to save him. The film explores themes of greed and friendship, blending vibrant visuals with a rich narrative.
Ginger’s Tale premiered in 2020, earning a nomination for Best Animation at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. It also screened at the Shanghai International Film Festival and received accolades at the Crystal Keys and Scandinavian International Film Festivals, along with a nomination at the San Diego International Film Festival.
Set in the fairy-tale City of Masters, the story follows Potter as he struggles to make a living as a potter while dreaming of restoring the city’s fountain. Together with his friends Ginger and Padlock, he faces challenges that test his resolve and relationships. The film’s unique artistic style and emotional depth have made it a standout in the world of animation.
Cast director: Konstantin Shchekin
Cast actor: Natalya Tereshkova, Edgard Zapashnyy, Petr Kovrizhnykh, Irina Yakovleva, Sergey Burunov, Yury Askarov, Aleksandr Oleshko, Alexey Elistratov, Nikita Prozorovsky, Oleg Esenin
Original name: Огонёк-Огниво