Kid Koala's Animated Feature Space Cadet Opens in Cinemas This Weekend
The brilliant and beautiful story of a robot and his girl, Space Cadet, directed by Montreal's own Kid Koala, premieres in theaters across the city starting this Friday. This dialogue-free animated film offers a gentle alternative to typical Hollywood animation, based on Kid Koala's 2009 graphic novel of the same name.
A Story of Parental Love and Empty-Nest Syndrome
The film follows Robot, who protects a girl named Celeste as she grows up to become an astronaut like her mother. When Celeste embarks on her first intergalactic mission, Robot is left alone and melancholic, dealing with both his failing operating system and the emotional void of her absence. Meanwhile, Celeste faces challenges in space that trigger childhood memories.
Kid Koala, whose real name is Eric San, explained the personal origins of the story during a recent interview from his Montreal home. "When I was working on the graphic novel, I was anticipating the arrival of my first daughter," he said. "Since then, parenthood happened and I now have two teenage daughters. Anyone will tell you that you learn as much from your kids as they do from you."
The artist noted that his daughter graduated high school while they were finishing the film, adding new emotional depth to the empty-nest themes. "She's on the brink of going on her own 'space adventure,'" he reflected.
From Graphic Novel to Animated Feature
The project began as a graphic novel inspired by both the death of Kid Koala's grandmother and the excitement of impending parenthood. "It was something I had to do to process everything going on at the time," he explained.
After creating a music show based on the book with his wife Corinne Merrell (who serves as the film's art director), producer Ginette Petit saw the potential for an animated feature in 2011. It took over a decade to secure financing and partners for the full-length film, which had its world premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival last year.
"It's a dream come true," Kid Koala said of seeing promotional materials in theaters. "I've always had an interest in animation. I have to pinch myself."
The film features an original score by Kid Koala along with songs from vocalists including Martha Wainwright, Emilíana Torrini, Meaghan Smith, Mariana Vieira, and Karen O.
Additional Weekend Events in Montreal
The Offspring Concert at Bell Centre
Veteran punk band The Offspring performs at the Bell Centre on Saturday night. While known for their energetic punk anthems, recent reviews suggest the California band incorporates unexpected elements into their show, including a piano cover of The Beatles' Hey Jude performed by Dexter Holland.
Rick Duff at Le National
Québécois new-country star Rick Duff presents his first major Montreal concert since releasing his debut album Forever Reckless in October. His music embodies traditional country themes with what his press materials describe as "dust, sincerity, beer and scrapes."
John Muirhead at La Sala Rossa
Folk musician John Muirhead performs sophisticated folk music on Friday night at La Sala Rossa, offering a mix of rousing anthems and contemplative pieces that provide a refreshing alternative to mainstream sounds.
Great Canadian Kilt Skate
The St. Andrew's Society of Montreal hosts its annual Great Canadian Kilt Skate on Saturday afternoon at the Westmount Recreation Centre. Participants are encouraged to wear kilts or tartan for skating from 3:30 to 4:20 PM, followed by hot beverages. Registration is recommended for this free event.
Tickets and information for all events are available through respective venue websites.
