A tiny bird teaches an emperor the cost of choosing bling over soul — ouch.
Captivated by its sweet song, an emperor takes a nightingale into his palace as his companion. But when the emperor shows more interest in a bejeweled mechanical bird, the nightingale flees. It returns only when the lonely emperor sees how foolishly he has behaved.
Director
Michael Sporn
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Sporn adapted Hans Christian Andersen's tale but infused it with Japanese aesthetic influences, creating a fascinating East-West hybrid that respects both traditions.
Mako's narration was recorded in one session — he reportedly cried after reading the final lines, insisting the crew keep his unpolished take.
US
