A classic touchstone of animation in Europe, this award-winning gem has rarely been seen by English-speaking audiences.

The kingdom of Tachycardia is ruled over by the mean-tempered King Charles - he hates everyone, and everyone hates him right back. So much so that when the king becomes infatuated with a painting of a beautiful shepherdess, the girl flees the canvas with her chimney sweep lover to escape his attentions.

Pursued by the king's bumbling secret police through the labyrinthine architecture of Tachycardia (comprised of Venetian canals, Bavarian castles and New York tower blocks) the lovers find an unlikely ally in the form of a playful mockingbird.

Witty and visually inventive, this classic Hans Christian Anderson tale - reinterpreted by writer Jacques Prévert (Les enfants du paradis) - artfully tackles themes of oppression and the liberation from tyranny.

“Stylish graphics and an elegant visual and verbal humour.” - Time Out

MIFF Recommends: Age 7+. Some adult themes.