The O’Briens — Award-Winning Animated Short

A thesis film written and directed by Perla Grisham

Best Comedy - Laguna Animation Film Festival

Official selections & honors at four additional film festivals.

Set in a quiet suburban neighborhood in 1975, The Obriens follows a quirky family caught between magic and normalcy. After growing up surrounded by magic, Mom has rejected that world entirely—banning all things magical in favor of a “normal” life.

But her youngest daughter, Ivy, suspects that Grandpa Murph is secretly a wizard. Determined to uncover the truth, Ivy enlists the help of her cat, Luigi—who, thanks to one of Grandpa’s magical mishaps, can now talk (though only to her). Mischief, mystery, and magical mayhem unfold in this heartwarming and comedic short about family, secrets, and embracing who you are.