Candy Commotion

Candy Commotion is the opening scene of an imagined film that sparks conversation around grief. It follows two protagonists who, after losing their fathers, begin personal journeys of healing while facing the weight of the past. The work includes six storyboard pages, each with nine panels, and two promotional posters that expand the narrative visually. I chose storyboards for their ability to highlight key emotional beats and allow for expressive, raw imagery. The visual style blends classic “rubber hose” animation with modern illustration techniques inspired by anime, creating a bridge between nostalgia and contemporary appeal. The posters build on this style with added color and detail, offering more insight into the characters and their emotional arcs. Originally, Candy Commotion was a personal piece to process the loss of my own father. But as the idea grew, I wanted it to become a space for others to reflect and share their experiences too. Through research into the psychology of grief, I aimed to make the project feel safe and relatable. My hope is that Candy Commotion encourages viewers to embrace their emotions and see creative expression as a healthy way to process unresolved feelings.

-Brandon Morales

Cartoon illustration of two characters in front of a building, with clouds and a striped sky background.
Framed collection of posters and storyboard illustrations on a white wall.
Two vintage cartoon characters with expressive faces, one holding a metallic, dripping substance, in front of a brick building and clouds.