Zak Margolis

Martin Cooper’s documentary feature explores the lives and work of six internationally renowned, independent animators and animation directors. These multi-award-winning artists are Jim Blashfield, Rose Bond, Joan C. Gratz, Zak Margolis, Joanna Priestley and Chel White. Their animated films span a period of over 40 years and reflect a wide range of techniques, from direct animation and classic stop-motion, through 3D models, clay painting, computer-generated imagery up to AI. History, Mystery & Odyssey is entirely filmed in Portland Oregon, where all these animators live and work.

My father is part comedian, part magician, and part tortured soul. I’m not saying I had an encounter in the bathroom with him that was like this—but, hell, it sure feels as if I did.

This film emerged from the rhythm and textures of a piece of music by Vern Avola called Trigger Object. It's a study of locomotion, growth and societal collapse in the form of an animated walk cycle.