A Cardboard City and a Flying Owl: How David Lowery Made Moon and Luna Soar
In 2020, a tiny owl was rescued from the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Now, that real-life spark has been transformed into An Almost Christmas Story, a whimsical animated short streaming exclusively on Disney+. Directed by David Lowery and produced by Alfonso Cuarón, the story follows Moon, a curious owl, and Luna, a lost girl, as they find their way home through a magical holiday adventure.
Inspired by a Real Rescue
The short film brings to life the story of Moon, who finds himself trapped inside a Christmas tree headed for Rockefeller Plaza. Along the way, he meets Luna, a young girl trying to find her family. Together, they explore the bustling city and the meaning of Christmas.
Building a Cardboard New York
Lowery wanted New York to feel handmade and nostalgic. “Once we decided to make the film animated, I knew I wanted the entire city made from cardboard,” he explains. Inspired by his childhood crafting with his father, the aesthetic choice shaped the entire production. “Every decision stemmed from that one vision.”
Working with Alfonso Cuarón
Collaborating with five-time Academy Award winner Alfonso Cuarón was both exciting and freeing. “He let me explore every direction,” Lowery says. “We started with live action, considered puppets, then hybrids, and finally landed on full CG. He encouraged me to make it uniquely mine.”
From Acting Booth to Director’s Chair
Lowery describes the voice directing process as “more physical than expected.” Because each actor recorded separately, he acted out every other role during sessions to guide the performance. “It was like being in the scene with them,” he recalls.
A Lasting First Impression
For Lowery, the biggest honor is knowing this film might be someone’s very first cinematic experience. “My first film was Pinocchio. It stayed with me forever,” he shares. “I hope An Almost Christmas Story becomes that kind of memory for another child.”
With a charming story, visual wonder, and heartfelt message, An Almost Christmas Story is ready to capture imaginations this holiday season on Disney+.
Stay tuned for the release date and stream this festive short when it lands later this fall!
