The Flying Sailor is based on the Halifax Explosion of 1917 when two ships collided in the Halifax Harbour causing the largest accidental explosion in history. Among the tragic stories of the disaster is the remarkable account of a sailor who, blown skyward from the deck of a British cargo steamer, flew over 2 km before landing completely unharmed, but naked except for his boots.
Amanda Forbis
David Christensen
Amanda Forbis
Wendy Tilby
CinemaSerf
It's probably just as well that the eponymous sailor is long dead for I don't think he'd be terribly impressed with the body these animators have decided to give him! He is strolling the harbour of Halifax when a sudden explosion as two ships appear to collide propels him up into the air, strips him...
Meet the Makers | Amanda Forbis & Wendy Tilby on The Flying Sailor (03m05s)
Behind the Scenes • YouTube
A Seaman’s Life Flashes Before His Eyes | The Flying Sailor | The New Yorker Screening Room
Featurette • YouTube
The Flying Sailor | Trailer | Oscar®-Nominated Animated Short
Trailer • YouTube
ONF | NFB