Predictions and bets surround the upcoming OscarsRobot Dreams, the latest jewel in Spanish animation. Although anticipation builds quietly, the moment the news breaks there is a chorus of excitement. The filmmaker, Pablo Berger, speaks after learning that his film has earned a nomination. The Bilbao-born director eyes the Best Animated Film category for the 96th edition of the prestigious awards, set to take place in Los Angeles on March 10.
“I carry a permanent smile,” observes the producer. “There is nervous energy, but it feels like a dream unfolding. At some point, every filmmaker hopes to witness the Oscars premiere in their career.” The Catalan co-producer Arcadia Motion Pictures collaborated with the Generalitat Ministry of Culture on the project, adapting Sara Varon’s graphic novel of the same name. The animated film follows the emotional bond between a dog and an android in 1980s New York, presented as a tender, dialogue-free journey that centers on friendship and the search for soulful connection, as described by the director.
Successful start in animation
Pablo Berger’s inaugural Oscar nomination follows his debut in the animation field. The director reflects on his career, describing himself as both a new storyteller and a veteran of several features, with this film serving as a culmination of experiences that prepared him for the moment. He says that working with some of the country’s finest actors, including Maribel Verdú and Javier Cámara, taught him how to recognize sincere commentary and craft authentic, emotional characters within animation.
He admits that taking on the project came with a sense of fear, but that sentiment has grown into a profoundly satisfying journey. While the future remains open, the filmmaker feels confident about returning to animation and exploring new ideas, even though the next project has yet to be defined.
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The production process reveals a key insight: the animation world shares many parallels with live-action filmmaking. On set, actors perform in real time, while in animation a team of animators brings scenes to life. Yet the core challenge remains the same: clear storytelling and authentic emotion. The director emphasizes the importance of distinguishing genuine, heartfelt commentary from comments that may be misguided or misleading, a reminder that effective communication is central to filmmaking.
The authoring team highlights that Robot Dreams competes alongside The Boy and the Heron, Elemental, Nimona, and Spider-Man: Crossing the Multiverse within its category. Berger notes that the strength of this film lies in its craftsmanship, especially when contrasted with major studio productions. He views the nomination as more than a personal accolade; it is a doorway for more audiences to see the film in theaters and to recognize the artistry involved in its creation.
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Robot Dreams has been widely acclaimed and was named Best Animated Film at last year’s European Film Awards and recognized at several other festivals. The film has earned multiple nominations and accolades across major European awards ceremonies, underscoring its standing within the animation community and its appeal to audiences across regions, including North America.