iACADEMY’s “Mono:Tono” Earns Official Selection at First-Time Filmmakers Lift-Off Session #8

iACADEMY’s 4th-year BS Animation students from Salamander Studios have earned an Official Selection under the Student Shorts Category at the First-Time Filmmakers Lift-Off Session #8 in the United Kingdom for their animated film, “Mono:Tono.”

Directed by Luis Martin F. Delgado and Kirsten Sky M. De Ocampo, “Mono:Tono” is a 2D cutout and 2D paperless animated film that follows a Filipino office worker trapped in a monotonous daily routine. The film is anchored on Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being through its concept, “REVEL IN REVERIE: How Lucid Dreaming Has Positive Effects on Average Filipino Workers.” It explores the relationship between routine, rest, and mental well-being, offering a creative look at how lucid dreaming can provide a temporary escape and a new perspective on everyday life.

The Lift-Off Sessions is a monthly online showcase dedicated to screening independently produced short and feature films from emerging filmmakers around the world. The program provides filmmakers with an opportunity to have their work screened for global audiences, with participating films showcased through Vimeo On Demand.

For Session #8, “Mono:Tono” will be screened from August 10 at 6:00 PM BST to August 23 at 10:00 PM BST. The film joins other selected works in the Student Shorts program, highlighting the creative work of emerging filmmakers from different parts of the world.

The recognition reflects the growing creative potential of iACADEMY’s Animation students as they bring original stories and innovative visual approaches to international audiences.