An animated film about grief, purpose and the quiet magic of hope

Adapted from the beloved rhyming book by Leigh Marino, our story follows a small Christmas tree as he navigates loss, longing, and the hope of one day becoming a family’s chosen tree at Christmastime.

Tenderly told through richly illustrated visuals and lyrical prose, the film explores the ways light can still find us in seasons of sorrow. Crafted for children and adults alike, this is a powerful story for anyone who loves deeply, values meaningful traditions, and knows even the smallest lives can leave a lasting mark.

Live action and handcrafted animation woven together with a warm, timeless sensibility. This is classic storytelling for modern hearts.

Our visual world

A note from the Director

“Stories have a subtle power to slip past our defenses and settle deep inside, planting seeds of change. They shape the way we see ourselves and the world, often without us realizing it.

This animated short is more than an adaptation of my book - it’s an offering. It’s a reminder that every life has purpose, even when we feel unseen or small.

Through hand-crafted visuals and a timeless tone, we’re creating a space where audiences can feel, remember, and begin to mend. My hope is that this film will meet people where words can’t touch, opening gentle conversations in families, classrooms, and therapy circles alike.

Whether you’re raising a child or tending to your inner one, this story has the power to ignite the heart and inspire the mind.”

— Leigh Marino, Writer & Director

Where we are in our journey

To Be A Christmas Tree has been unfolding slowly and intentionally, much like the story at its heart.

The screenplay and emotional framework of the film have been developed, alongside the visual world and atmosphere that will shape the story onscreen. Thanks to the generous support of our crowdfunding community, the live action sequences that gently bookend the story have been filmed, grounding the film in a timeless winter landscape.

The original illustrator of the book has reimagined the characters for animation, breathing new life into the little tree and the girl in yellow boots as they transition from page to screen.

Our animation team is currently crafting an early scene to establish the film’s handcrafted visual rhythm and animation process.

In the coming months, we will begin casting and recording voices for the animated characters before moving into the next major phase of production, including additional character development, expanded animation, music, and post-production.