Despite being on Netflix, my current go-to for movies, I Lost My Body completely slipped under my radar until it was nominated for Best Animated Film at the 2020 Academy Awards. Wanting to watch as many of the Oscar films as I can, time and motivation permitting, we decided to check it out.

The story follows a severed hand as it makes its way across Paris with the hopes of reconnecting with its owner, young pizza delivery boy, Naoufel (Hakim Faris). Along the way, we are shown memories that help us get to know Naoufel’s story, his relationship with Gabrielle (Victoire Du Bois) and the events that lead to the hands separation from the body.

Although ultimately this is a story about love, connection and letting go of the past, it was a little darker than I expected it to be. Don’t be fooled by the fact that it is an animated film, , this may be a little too graphic at times for younger children, even I was a little shocked by the fate of an unassuming pigeon.

What is particularly special about this film is that there is rather a limited amount of dialogue, the main heart of the story is told through the animation, which is well done, and the music, which is superb.

The romantic element of the film was uncomfortable, creepy and a little stalkerish. As a viewer, I had little to no investment in Naoufel’s attempts to woo Gabrielle. I was, however, anxious to see the hand reunited with its body although you’ll have to watch it yourself to see whether it succeeds…

Whilst I did enjoy this film, and it was great to watch something a little different, given its stiff competition with the likes of Toy Story 4 and Klaus, I can’t see it winning the Oscar for Best Animated Film, but then again, what do I know.