Films and artefacts from the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) are being showcased at the newly opened Musée du cinéma d’animation in Annecy, France, as part of a partnership agreement. Dedicated to the history, techniques, and evolution of animation, the museum features several iconic NFB works and archival treasures within its permanent exhibition.
Expressing delight to witness the showcase of their work, National Film Board of Canada Government film commissioner and chairperson Suzanne Guèvremont mentioned, “For over 85 years, the NFB has helped shape the language of animation by offering artists a space for experimentation and innovation, encouraging the kind of creative freedom that has inspired generations of filmmakers around the world. Seeing these works, objects and glimpses into the creative process take their place in Annecy’s Musée du cinéma d’animation is a testament to the lasting impact of our filmmakers and the special bond we share with the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where NFB productions have earned awards throughout the years.”
The museum’s permanent exhibition features around 20 audiovisual installations celebrating the diversity and evolution of animation. One of its highlights is an immersive seven-screen installation showcasing landmark NFB works by pioneering filmmakers including Norman McLaren, Ryan Larkin, Michèle Cournoyer, Jacques Drouin, Michèle Lemieux, and Paul Driessen. The exhibition also presents a selection of artefacts from the NFB archives, offering visitors insight into the creative processes, innovation, and craftsmanship that have shaped Canadian animation history.
A dedicated section of the exhibition highlights the work of animation pioneer Norman McLaren, featuring production materials from Begone Dull Care (1949) co-directed with Evelyn Lambart, Neighbours (1952), Blinkity Blank (1955), and Le merle (circa 1959). The display includes handwritten and typed notes, photographs, collages, sketches, and experimental works on paper, offering insight into McLaren’s creative process.
Visitors can also explore materials from Synchromy (1971), including rare handmade sound cards used in his pioneering research into synthetic sound, alongside demonstrations of cut-out animation and working sketches that reflect his commitment to sharing his craft. The exhibition also features original artwork by other renowned Canadian animators, including a watercolour drawing by Ryan Larkin for Walking (circa 1968) and two drawings by Ishu Patel for Paradise (1984), created using watercolour and backlit pinhole techniques.
Recognised internationally for its diverse storytelling and pioneering animation techniques, the NFB has long been a leader in animated filmmaking. Its productions have received 79 academy award nominations and won 12 Oscars across all categories, while the organisation was honoured with an Honorary Academy Award in 1989 for its overall contribution to cinema.
The NFB also holds a distinguished place in the Academy Awards’ best animated short film category, having earned 39 nominations to date. According to the academy’s official records, it ranks second only to Disney in total nominations, ahead of major studios including MGM, Warner Bros, and Pixar.
The NFB has maintained a long-standing presence at the Annecy Festival since its inception in 1960. More than 350 NFB productions have been selected for the festival, earning 66 awards, including nine Grand Prix du Festival honours, now known as the Annecy Cristal. Over the years, acclaimed filmmakers such as Theodore Ushev, Regina Pessoa, Caroline Leaf, Ishu Patel, Wendy Tilby, Amanda Forbis, Chris Landreth, Co Hoedeman, Pierre Hébert, and Joanna Quinn have been recognised for their work at the festival.
