War on Drugo: A Stop-Motion Masterpiece

Gabriel Nóbrega's Award-Winning Short Film Sheds Light on Drug Policy Reform

What sets "War on Drugo" apart from other short films is its unique production method. Nóbrega chose to create the film entirely in stop-motion animation, using hinged cardboard puppets and miniature sets. This decision not only reinforced the folkloric tone of the script but also lent an ingeniously handmade character to the film. Practical animation effects were used extensively, with digital software employed sparingly for animating individual elements and final compositing.

The production process was a monumental task. The team aimed to give the video a cinematic feel, shooting it at 24 frames per second with complex camera movements to create an immersive experience for the viewer. This required a team of highly skilled animators and an extended production time. The animation process alone took seven months, involving over 60 people, 13 scenarios, and 310 characters. A staggering 31,200 pictures were taken during the process.

The film, which runs for 3 minutes and 21 seconds, was delivered in a high-definition digital video file. It was created as an online project and is available on the Global Commission of Drug Policy's website and YouTube channel. The short film was first projected on August 25, 2014, at a special session in Mube Auditorium in São Paulo, Brazil, marking the culmination of a project that began in October 2013.

"War on Drugo" is not just a film; it's a statement. The art direction, heavily based on medieval imagery, incorporates contemporary references like helicopters and modern-day favelas. This blend of old and new imparts an atemporal feeling that echoes the convoluted, centuries-old relationship between humankind and recreational substances. The film aims to foster a broader discussion about drug policy reform, a testament to the power of art as a tool for social commentary.

For its marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creation, "War on Drugo" was awarded the Golden A' Design Award in 2016. This prestigious recognition is granted to designs that reflect extraordinary excellence and significantly impact the world with their desirable characteristics. Nóbrega's film certainly fits this description, serving as a beacon of innovative design and thoughtful commentary on a global issue.