🎉 Christopher & The Bug Wins Best Animated Film at Phoenixville Film Festival!

We’re absolutely thrilled to share that Christopher & The Bug screened at the Phoenixville Film Festival 2025 — and took home the award for Best Animated Film!

It was an honour to be part of this vibrant and passionate festival, known for championing independent voices and fostering a deep love for cinema. The warm reception from audiences and the recognition from the jury made our Phoenixville experience truly unforgettable.

🎬 About the Film

Christopher & The Bug tells the story of Christopher, a reclusive owl whose quiet, carefully ordered life is upended when a small, enthusiastic bug unexpectedly moves into his home. What begins as an annoying disruption blossoms into an unlikely friendship — revealing the power of connection, empathy, and inclusion.

The film uses striking animation and quiet humour to explore the emotional transformation that comes from letting someone — or something — new into your life.

The Colonial Theatre

Christopher & The Bug was produced by Vanessa Esteves and Lydia Ferreira, with Scott Williamson serving as Technical Supervising Director and was Directed by Vanessa Esteves and Kevin Micallef.

The film's distinctive visual style was crafted under the direction of Art Director Don Gauthier, and brought fully to life through the incredible animation work of Samantha VanRootselaar. THe full credits for the entire, amazing team can be found at www.addthedog.com

🏆 A Huge Thank You

Winning Best Animated Film at Phoenixville means the world to our team. We're so grateful to the festival organizers, jury, and attendees for embracing the heart of this story and recognizing the care and creativity that went into bringing it to life.

To our fellow filmmakers, thank you for inspiring us. To everyone who watched and supported the film — whether at the festival or from afar — we see you, and we’re grateful.

Stay Connected

Follow the film’s journey: @christopherandthebug

For screeners, interviews, or more info: Vanessa.esteves@addthedog.com

Learn more about the festival: https://phoenixvillefilmfestival.com