Sprucilla and The Queen of Trees, 9min., USA
Directed by Chris DiFiore
Barē is a Halloween tree decoration living in the clearance aisle at Bargain Branch, but their dreams refuse to be boxed in. They think they’ve got what it takes to be crowned as the next Queen of Trees, even though they don’t have luscious green leaves or dazzling decorations like the other trees in the competition. After Barē gets some guidance from Sprucilla, a legendary Queen of Trees winner, they embrace their chance to shine as their true self and prove that being different isn’t a weakness—it’s a superpower.

https://www.instagram.com/imeanlive/

Get to know director Chris DiFiore

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I Mean Live is our nonprofit animation studio dedicated to spreading empathy through the power of storytelling, so "Sprucilla and the Queen of Trees" was a natural fit as the first short film project for the studio and I to take on. At its heart, the story of 'Barē' is one of redefining labels and forging your own unique path, despite what anyone else may think. Having support and inspiration can be essential fuel on your journey through life; 'Sprucilla' and the other clearance aisle items who support 'Barē's' journey represent the love we all deserve.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

The inspiration for the short film was something we thought about at the studio for a long time, but production lasted about four months from beginning to end.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

Empathetic and hopeful!

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

I wanted the short to not only capture the empathy and hope that is integral to I Mean Live's ethos, but also display the quality of animation we as a studio are capable of. We spent a lot of time refining the 3D animation to display that quality and we're so happy with the results.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

Everyone at I Mean Live loved watching the audience reactions to the short. Even though this began as a very personal project, the ability to share our work with audiences and spread the message of acceptance and love is key to our mission statement, and has been the most fulfilling aspect of this entire project.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

I've always loved storytelling and technology, and for the past 20 years, 3d animated films have been at the heart of both.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

I think watching the film play to a live audience is the most gratifying experience a filmmaker can have, so anything that could bolster or promote in-person screenings would be a great addition.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

Excellent. I've enjoyed the vast network of festivals FilmFreeway provides access to.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Waffles. Pretty much any breakfast food.

11. What is next for you? A new film?

Our nonprofit studio I Mean Live is tackling several projects and campaigns across 2025, including a bridge animated series Flower and Flour that is currently in production and set to premiere in early 2026, several graphic novels, a (LGBTQ) Pride Month campaign for the Hetrick-Martin Institute For LGBTQIA+ Youth, and a series of PSA's (Public Service Animations) to spread and champion empathy and inclusivity.