Happy Birthday Bobby

CJ ELLIS

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CJ Ellis is a self-taught British-Canadian 2D animator with a background in illustration. Humour plays a key part in his visual style, though his work often explores deeper themes such as mental health, loneliness, and relationships. He draws inspiration from sound and music, treating audio as a central character in his storytelling.

Film Synopsis: 

At his son’s birthday party, a divorced father tries to reconnect, but feelings of inadequacy and quiet rivalry with his ex-wife’s new partner could get in the way. Happy Birthday Bobby is a hand-drawn animation about longing, insecurity, and the quiet heartbreak of falling behind.

Credits:

Title: Happy Birthday Bobby

Director: CJ Ellis

Writer: CJ Ellis

Animator: CJ Ellis

Sound Design: CJ Ellis

Music: Original composition by CJ Ellis

Runtime: 43 Seconds

Country of Production: United Kingdom

Language: No dialogue