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The Untranslatable Forest

Airports are places of constant movement—thousands of people passing through each minute across the world. They represent a universal experience, whether we've been there ourselves or only seen them on screen. They are symbols of transition, of temporary limbo, where lives briefly cross paths before diverging once again. But what happens when an airport becomes a canvas for displaying unusually beautiful words and their meanings? The kind of words we wish we knew to perfectly express a feeling we can't quite articulate. This intriguing premise is at the heart of The Untranslatable Forest, a short animated film that attempts to blend the mundanity of airports with the enchantment of rare and expressive words, and creative visuals.

"Komorebi" is the Japanese word for sunlight filtering through the leaves of trees. It captures a moment so universally felt yet rarely named. The Untranslatable Forest seeks to remind us of the words we never knew we needed, those that organically frame emotions and phenomena often left unspoken. It’s a charming concept, pairing these words with the transient, often overlooked space of an airport—yet it struggles to fully connect these two ideas in a way that feels meaningful.

The short opens with, "It can hardly be a coincidence that no language on earth has ever produced the expression 'as pretty as an airport,'" a clever line that initially highlights the uniqueness of language. The short presents an enchanting blend of concepts, offering a glimpse into a larger idea that sparks curiosity. In some ways, it resembles a beautifully crafted social media reel— brief, notable, and inspirational—delivering a visually engaging experience that hints at even greater possibilities. Directors and writers Ivan Miguel and Andy Camou create visually appealing scenes alongside memorable, thought-provoking words.

The Untranslatable Forest is a visually captivating and inventive short that introduces audiences to rare and beautiful words they may have unknowingly sought for years. In under two minutes, it blends playful, creative nature visuals with the dynamic setting of a bustling airport, offering a fresh and engaging take on language. The airport backdrop adds a unique charm, creating moments that are both eye-catching and refreshing.

While the short's accessibility and lighthearted tone may appeal to a broader audience, it might leave those searching for a deeper, more thoughtful meditation on language and meaning wanting more. With its compelling premise and striking imagery, The Untranslatable Forest serves as a delightful introduction to the magic of words—one that could be expanded into an even richer and more immersive experience.