Laika, the first dog in space, was launched into orbit by the Soviet Union on November 3, 1957, and she died during her historic flight. To commemorate this deed, an American illustrator, Emory Allen, has created an animation video dedicated to the famous dog. His video story is based on an eight-line verse “Triolet for Laika, First Dog in Space” by Ann Kolakowski, which tells the story of the dog that would never return home.
The brief and moving poem "Triolet For Laika, First Dog In Space", written by Ann Kolakowski, is a fitting ode to Laika's short yet impactful life. The poem was originally published in Rattle #40, Summer 2013.
“Triolet for Laika, First Dog in Space”
They sealed your steel sarcophagus;
they made no plans to bring you home.
(Perhaps they thought you Anubis.)
They sealed your steel sarcophagus
and let you burn—like Sirius,
the other dogstar in the dome.
They sealed your steel sarcophagus.
They made no plans to bring you home.
Film about Laika by Emory Allen
Non-native Minnesotan Emory Allen creates whimsical characters and custom lettering for clients the world over. Inspired equally by Jim Henson, Herb Lubalin, and Wolverine, his work is the product of an adult that never learned how to stop being a kid. His unique brand of storytelling has been recognized by Adobe, HOW, and The Huffington Post among others.
The film “Triolet for Laika” is an introspective look at the connection between courage and isolation told through the viewpoint of the heroine, Laika, the first dog in space. Filmed by Emory Allen in conjunction with Motionpoems, the movie was premiered online following a festival run:
- Official Selection Animation Block Party 2015
- Official Selection Atlanta Underground Film Festival 2015
- Official Selection Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival 2015
- Official Selection New Orleans Film Festival 2015
- Gold Award Winner Spotlight Short Film Awards 2015
Also read:
Laika Film Credits
Director / Illustrator: Emory Allen
Executive Producers: Todd Boss, Egg Creative, Amanda Miller
Based on the poem "Triolet for Laika, First Dog In Space" by Ann Eichler Kolakowski
Animator: Alicia Reece
Modeler / Animator: Joe Russo
Production Support: NEIGHBOR
Original Music / Sound Designer: Alec Considine-Mueller
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