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Animator Malcon Pierce Explores Grief in 'Versa'

10/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Malcon Pierce, a Walt Disney animator, presents Versa at Animation Is Film.
The film follows a couple's journey through grief and joy.
It was inspired by the loss of their infant son, Cooper, using a crystal star.
Ice dancing drives the narrative, with Katherine Hill and Ben Agosto choreographing.
Haim Mazar's dynamic score evolves with the characters' emotions, while Pierce draws inspiration from the book "Permission to Mourn".

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Story summary

Malcon Pierce, a Walt Disney animator, presents Versa at Animation Is Film.
The film follows a couple's journey through grief and joy.
It was inspired by the loss of their infant son, Cooper, using a crystal star.
Ice dancing drives the narrative, with Katherine Hill and Ben Agosto choreographing.
Haim Mazar's dynamic score evolves with the characters' emotions, while Pierce draws inspiration from the book "Permission to Mourn".