Light Years

Adapted from Jean-Pierre Andrevon’s novel The Machine-Men versus Gandahar, Light Years was made in 1988, and is René Laloux’s third and final feature.

A cult piece of animated science fiction, the film takes us to the land of Gandahar, on the planet Tridan, where the human race is leading a peaceful existence in perfect tune with nature. Governed by Ambisextra and her Council of Women, life is full of happiness built on a philosophy of pleasure and love. However, this sensuous lifestyle is disrupted by Metamorphis, a forgotten sea monster who condemns the inhabitants of the planet. The queen entrusts the fate of the realm to the young knight Sylvin, who is charged with getting rid of this menace.

After working on this project for almost ten years, Light Years is an animated gem, a saga masterfully told by Laloux and brought to life by the drawings of the director’s loyal collaborator Philippe Caza. This rite of passage tale will take you on an incredible journey into unchartered territory.

Let yourself get swept away by this animation masterpiece shown outdoors in the courtyard of the Château d’Annecy.