“Toei Animation Earns Its First Ever Oscar Nod – Here’s Why Magic Candies Stole the Spotlight

For the first time, Toei Animation has been nominated for an Oscar. The 21-minute short film Magic Candies received a nod for Best Animated Short Film at the 2025 Academy Awards. The film might not be widely known, but it has charmed audiences with its heartfelt story and stunning animation.

What Is Magic Candies About?

Directed by Daisuke Nishio and based on a story by Korean author Baek Heena, Magic Candies tells the story of a young boy who eats a magical candy and gains the ability to hear people’s deepest thoughts. The short is fully animated in CG and was brought to life by Dandelion Animation Studio, the same team behind The First Slam Dunk.

Following the nomination, Nishio expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s such an honor. I can’t believe it. This recognition is thanks to the hard work of the entire staff and cast who brought this story to life.”

Magic Candies is up against strong contenders in the Best Animated Short Film category, including Beautiful Men, In the Shadow of the Cypress, Wander to Wonder, and Yuck!

Anime Still Struggles for Recognition at the Oscars

While Magic Candies is a big win for Toei Animation, many anime fans feel disappointed that major anime films were left out of the Best Animated Feature category. Films like Look Back by Tatsuki Fujimoto, The Colors Within, and My Oni Girl were snubbed despite critical acclaim.

Over the Oscars’ 97-year history, only 12 anime projects have been nominated. Past winners include Spirited Away and The Boy and the Heron. However, anime often struggles to gain recognition, with this year’s Best Animated Feature category dominated by Western titles like Inside Out 2, The Wild Robot, and Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl.

Fans hope Magic Candies will pave the way for greater appreciation of anime at the Academy Awards in the future.