Founded in 2017, the transition of CineOdyssey from a live-action to an animation film festival is a compelling narrative of adaptation and innovation, rooted in the challenges and opportunities presented by the global pandemic. When the world was grappling with the consequences of COVID-19, including lockdowns and social distancing measures, the realm of cinema and film festivals faced unprecedented hurdles. Traditional venues and formats were suddenly impractical, pushing organizers and creatives to rethink how to connect with audiences without sacrificing the communal spirit and cultural exchange inherent to film festivals.

The seeds of reimagining CineOdyssey were planted during this tumultuous period, driven by the need to find resilient and flexible modes of storytelling. Animation, inherently versatile and unbounded by the physical limitations of live-action production, presented a unique solution. It offered filmmakers the ability to craft their narratives without the constraints of location shooting, large crews, or physical sets, all of which were severely affected by pandemic restrictions. Moreover, animation could captivate audiences of all ages, transcending language and cultural barriers, thus broadening the festival’s reach and impact.