The Bolt Who Screwed Christmas is a 2009 independent animated short film parody of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! written and directed by John Wardlaw and animated by Andy Angrand. The film features the final performance of actor Jonathan Harris and co-stars Tress MacNeille. The film also features an original score by Gary Stockdale and music by director John Wardlaw's band, Anti-m.
Jonathan Harris Written in 1997, the script was presented to Jonathan Harris in 1998 and his voice work was actually recorded in 2000. He died on November 3, 2002, making it his last film. In 2006 an additional scene was added to the film and Jonathan Harris' former Lost In Space co-stars Bill Mumy, Angela Cartwright and Marta Kristen added their voices to the film. The film was dedicated to his memory.
Production and release Completed in 2009, the film first appeared at the non-theatrical 2009 Los Angeles Reel Film Festival where it was honored with three awards. In 2010 it made its theatrical world premier in film-maker John Wardlaw's home town at the 25th Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF). Between December 2009 and December 2011, it played in 30 film festivals, winning 13 awards. Its final theatrical appearance was at L’hybride in Lille France.
In 2011 it was released on DVD as part of a collection of short films and music videos by Wardlaw. The DVD bonus features include early animations and audio outtakes. The film was licensed to ShortsHD and ShortsTV in 2014.
Reception "It had a great animation style, clever and slightly naughty story (well put together) and was totally enjoyable!" claimed D. C. Fontana;
"I laughed my nuts off," stated David Gerrold.
Awards Award Festival / Year 2nd Place Best AnimationLARFF Los Angeles Reel Film Festival 2009Best Animated CharactersLARFF Los Angeles Reel Film Festival 2009Best Animation StoryLARFF Los Angeles Reel Film Festival 2009VSM Excellence Award For AnimationVSM (Very Short Movie) Film Festival 2010Accolade Award Of Merit for AnimationAccolade Film Awards 2010Best Animated ComedyDragon Con 2010Silver Telly Awards: Non-Broadcast Productions - Use of Humor; Use of Animation; EntertainmentThe Telly Awards 2010Best Animation The Ventura Film Festival 2010Best Animated FilmThe Nevada Film Festival 2010Best Animated Short ComedyThe Indie Gathering 2011Best Of Faux Audience Choice AwardFaux Film Fest 2011Nomination Best Animated VisualsLos Angeles Reel Film Festival 2009Nomination Best Animation Sound DesignLos Angeles Reel Film Festival 2009Nomination Best Voice Over Jonathan HarrisLos Angeles Reel Film Festival 2009Nomination Best Voice Over Tress MacNeilleLos Angeles Reel Film Festival 2009Nomination Best Original ScoreLos Angeles Reel Film Festival 2009
See also List of Christmas films
References
External links Official website