Hungu

The haunting hum and buzz of the African hungu punctuates this timeless animated tale about the origins of this ancient instrument. Although its mythical roots are mired in sorrow, the story is one of redemption. A mother’s soul, embodied in music, returns strength and life to a child when he becomes a man. The filmmaker combines 2D animation on a graphics tablet with the warmth of sand animation—creating a beautiful, original style. —EL