Buffalo Kids is a terrific new animated feature in theaters nationwide this Friday February 6th. Siblings Mary and Tom arrive in New York from Ireland in 1886, looking to meet and now live with their Uncle Niall. But when he doesn’t show up, Mary and Tom decide to head-out west to find him, on a train with other children, including new friend Nick. What they all discover changes the course of their lives. Directors Juan Jesus Garcia and Pedro Solís share the great meaning behind Buffalo Kids. (This Animation Scoop Interview was conducted as an Email Q&A and was edited for length and clarity.)

Jackson Murphy: This is a very sweet and engaging film. What elements were inspired by real life?

Juan Jesus Garcia: The heart of the film stems from our animated short, Strings (Cuerdas), which we produced a few years ago and which earned over 380 international awards. It was inspired by the relationship between Pedro Solís’s children, Alejandra and Nico. Many details, such as Nick’s movements and his unique way of communicating, were directly modeled after Nico. Furthermore, certain characters, like the dog “Sparky”, are based on Nico’s real-life pet. Another authentic element that inspired us was learning about the “Orphan Trains” which traveled across the United States to facilitate the adoption of orphaned children by pioneers in the Wild West.

JM: How did you want to present Mary and Tom as siblings who are kind and understanding to each other?

Pedro Solís: We aimed to portray a relationship rooted in mutual protection between two siblings navigating a grand adventure through untamed landscapes. Moreover, Mary and Tom do not perceive their friend Nick as different. To them, he is simply another playmate. This reflects how Alejandra cared for and played with her brother in real life.

JM: What were your goals with the excellent character of Nick?

PS: Our objective was for Nick to be a full participant in the adventure without resorting to condescension. Nick has his own limitations and strengths, and he plays a pivotal role in the group’s progress, demonstrating that a disability does not preclude one from experiencing great adventures.

JM: What did you enjoy the most about animating the scenery of 1880s America?

JJG: It was a fascinating challenge. Working with expansive environments, steam locomotives, and Midwestern landscapes allowed us to create a visually rich and colorful world, which stands in contrast to the harsh light and arid desert featured in the film’s final act.

JM: How did you want to create some suspense / danger, without making it too scary for the kids watching the film?

JJG: We consistently sought a sense of balance. The danger is palpable — there are villains and moments of high tension — but there is always a touch of humor or hope to reassure children that, ultimately, everything will be alright.

JM: There’s a very talented voice cast, including Stephen Graham, Sean Bean, Gemma Arterton and Alisha Weir. What do you love about what these actors brought to their voice performances?

JJG: These actors brought an incredible sense of humanity to the project. They did more than just provide their voices; they imbued the characters with emotional nuances that elevated the narrative and brought them to life. We are profoundly proud to have collaborated with such exceptional talent.

JM: This film has all kinds of scenes, which are funny, heartwarming, majestic, exciting and moving. What do you like about blending tones, themes and genres in filmmaking?

PS: We enjoy juxtaposing fast-paced action sequences with deeply emotional moments. Above all, we wanted to create a film that is fun and adventurous without sacrificing tenderness or genuine emotion.

JM: After having “Buffalo Kids” screen around the world over the past year and a half, how does it feel to have it finally be released in North American theaters [through Viva Kids]?

PS: It is an incredible feeling. Following its success in Spain and other international markets, bringing this story to U.S. theaters completes a beautiful journey. We feel as though the film is arriving at its true home — the “dream home” that the protagonists of “Buffalo Kids” are searching for.