Theodore Ushev announces pre-production of 'Light Boxes,' an adaptation of Shane Jones' novel, at the Venice Production Bridge.
Bulgarian animator Theodore Ushev is officially in pre-production on his feature film adaptation of Shane Jones’ cult novel, "Light Boxes." This announcement was made on September 3, 2026, with plans for Ushev to present the project at the Venice Production Bridge’s Gap-Financing Market, taking place from September 4 to September 6. The film aims to merge stop-motion animation with live-action sequences to vividly portray the story's themes.
The adaptation of "Light Boxes" delves into poignant themes such as war, imagination, and the resilient spirit of hope. Set in a war-torn Ukrainian town, the narrative centers on a 13-year-old girl named Anna. Faced with oppressive circumstances from occupying forces, Anna explores a ruined library and uncovers a burning book titled "Light Boxes." In her quest for sanctuary, she encounters Bianca, her imaginary counterpart, who exists in a fantastical town beset by its own conflicts. This unique setting reflects the narrative's exploration of finding light amid darkness.
According to Variety, the film examines the conflict between escaping reality and confronting the harsh truths of war. It poses critical questions about the endurance of hope, memory, and love in the face of tyranny and despair. Ushev has expressed his fascination with how characters endeavor to reclaim their lost existence under the oppressive conditions of totalitarian regimes.
Before undertaking an animated feature, Ushev was skeptical about the medium, fearing it could dilute his distinctive style. However, the discovery of Jones’ novel during a 2010 screening in Toronto transformed his perspective. “As soon as I read ‘Light Boxes,’ I immediately imagined how I would recreate it with puppets,” Ushev stated, indicating a significant shift in his artistic direction.
Ushev's team includes producer Jacqueline Wagenstein, who obtained the adaptation rights. This project marks a major milestone as it represents the largest Bulgarian-led animated feature production to date, involving a collaborative effort with production teams from Canada, France, Belgium, and Poland.
"Light Boxes" aims to differentiate Anna’s harsh reality, depicted through live action, from Bianca’s vibrant, animated world crafted in stop-motion. Ushev plans to use meticulously designed puppets to reflect the emotionally charged environment of the story. The film is marked by its symbolic elements; for instance, characters utilize man-made creations to replicate light in a world where natural illumination is suppressed.
Lighting is positioned as a vital aspect of the film, both narratively and visually. Ushev has indicated that materials for the sets will include recycled items, such as parachutes and kites, which carry an inherent dream-like quality. This attention to visual detail aligns closely with the overarching theme of dreaming under oppression, as represented by the ban on flight within the story.
As "Light Boxes" approaches its presentation at the Venice Production Bridge, interest surrounding Ushev's adaptation continues to grow. The unique blend of animation and live action is likely to appeal to audiences interested in imaginative storytelling that addresses significant social issues. Ushev’s vision for this project represents not only a shift in his career but also a collective endeavor uniting multiple creative industries across countries.
For more on recent developments in film, check our coverage of Martin McDonagh's ‘Wild Horse Nine’ Debuts at Venice Film Festival and Paolo Strippoli Returns to Venice with New Thriller ‘The Spiral’.
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