Through My Thick Glasses 2004
Distributed by National Film Board of Canada, 1123 Broadway, Suite 307, New York, NY 10010; 800-542-2164
Produced by Marcel Jean
Directed by Pjotr Sapegin
VHS, color, 12 min.
Elementary - Adult
Animation, European Studies, World War II
Date Entered: 03/11/2005
Reviewed by Barb Bergman, Minnesota State University, MankatoThrough my Thick Glasses both entertains and educates as it tells about the occupation of Norway during World War II. The story is simple enough on the surface: in order to get his granddaughter to wear her stocking cap, Grandfather tells her a story about when he was a boy – but that tale is one of the German invasion and Norwegian resistance. Granddaughter listens silently, straightening her glasses and pulling the cap off, until… Grandfather says, “‘Let me put on your cap,’ Aunt Ella said.”
The claymation is visually charming, with many clever elements, such as growling Germans, dancing alligators, Aunt Ella the spy, and the rolling German war machine that looks like a land bound Star Wars Death Star.
Fans of Aardman Animations (Wallace & Gromit, Chicken Run) will likely enjoy this cartoon. For another animated tale about Norway during World War II, viewers may enjoy My Grandmother Ironed the King’s Shirts, also distributed by the National Film Board of Canada.
Highly recommended for all ages.
Includes a short study guide. Named a 2004 ALA Notable Video for Children.