Pie In the Sky, 8min., USA

Directed Susan Lim

“Pie in the Sky” is an enchanting music video that marries playful animation with the raw power of original recordings at Abbey Road Studio One, and a resplendent orchestral performance at the Barbican Concert Hall, London. The video opens with world-acclaimed pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet leading the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Robert Ziegler, in a captivating orchestral performance, his artistry setting the stage. From this vibrant live spectacle, we’re ushered into a whimsical animated adventure that playfully asks: “What is the ‘pie in the sky’?”

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Review by Julie C. Sheppard:

The title of this spirited short Pie in the Sky, which means big dreams that are likely unattainable, contradicts what the fabulous creative team is able to create – – this presentation is not a dream, but a tangible success, professionally, artistically and even romantically. 

Frames often offer a bird’s eye view of talented musicians in action, delivering a gorgeous melodic piece. Alternately, we see adorable, animated characters flying through breathtakingly beautiful outer space vistas, and discovering a high-tech utopia. It is a clever filmic decision to intermittently combine this animation with small onscreen boxes of the orchestral musicians playing refrains of the score. 

The film does a seamless job juggling shots of the orchestra in fine attire at a formal concert, with them in more relaxed dress at rehearsal in a large, brightly lit studio. Also worthy of mention is the skill of the articulate voice over artists during the animation segments – – so crystal clear and emotive. The absolute highlight of the piece is the culmination of all the hard work of the creators, with a joyful engagement scene – – an actual life experience resulting in an eventual wedding that is not at all “pie in the sky”, but tangible and real.