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S.P.I.C.: The Storyboard of My Life (2004)

In this highly personal film of animated vignettes, cartoonist Robert Castillo recounts key moments in his life.

"I was born here in the states but was raised in the island of Santo Domingo. S.P.I.C. is a compilation of everything I have learned and always wanted to try. The idea for this movie spawned from the need to deal with issues that were floating around inside my head and the ultimate desire to sketch. It is also a salute or homage to the pioneers of Animation who long ago broke ground with their amazing techniques.

 

I feel that I have picked up where J. Stuart Blackton left off. Animation was a vaudeville act in its infancy and it showed you how skillful these artists really were. I have a deep respect for story; I think it is a lost art form. Many movies and animations today rely on special effects and compositing techniques. I feel that you can't go wrong with story especially if it's your own story! We all have stories to tell.

In my Technique of storytelling there are different levels. The first level and most important one is the narration of the story and the sound. The second level is the visual level, which accompanies and supports the narration or sound. Both levels work together as one. This project has been both therapeutic and challenging, I never imagined how far it would go or how many doors it would open. The Title S.P.I.C. comes from the racist word kids called my family and me in Chelsea, Massachusetts. We never heard that word; they told us it meant Special Person in Chelsea.”

 

– Robert Castillo

S.P.I.C.: The Storyboard of My Life (2004)

  • Duration: 26 minutes

    Directed by Robert Castillo

  • Where to Rent/Buy

  • Awards

    • WINNER: Black Maria Film Festival
    • WINNER: Student Academy Award
    • WINNER: Best Narrative San Diego Latino Film Festival
    • WINNER: Best Animation SNOB Film Festival
    • OFFICIAL SELECTION: Short Shorts Film Festival
    • OFFICIAL SELECTION: TRIBECA Film Festival
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