Just Like Magic is an award-winning animated fantasy short film written, directed and scored by Derrick Anthony Hall, Jr. (also known as Dreams Are Here).
Set in a futuristic world where creativity is fading, a young artist escapes into a breathtaking journey through imagination and self-discovery. As she transforms pain into art, her creations spark a chain reaction that inspires the next generation to dream again.
Catalina Film Festival · Official Selection, 2026 · World Premiere
Sasqwatch International Film Festival · Best Animation Nominee, 2026
Portugal Indie Film Festival · Best Animation, 2026
Indie Short Fest · Semi-Finalist, 2026
Best Shorts Competition · Award of Merit, Special Mention: Animation, 2026
San Jose Independent Film Festival · Semi-Finalist, 2026
Florida Shorts · Semi-Finalist, 2026
Top Shorts · Semi-Finalist, 2026
Experimental, Dance & Music Film Festival · Official Selection, 2026
Rocket City Short Film Festival · Official Selection, 2026
Independent Shorts Awards · Semi-Finalist, 2026
Big Apple Film Festival · Official Selection, 2026
Tokyo Cinema Awards · Best Composer, 2026
2026 · 3 MIN 37 SEC · USA · ANIMATION / FANTASY · CREATED BY DREAMS ARE HERE
