Lou

On a busy schoolyard, a worn lost-and-found box guards a surprising secret. Lou, the quiet guardian who lives inside, emerges when trouble stirs and keeps a careful eye on the playground's pecking order. When a group of kids pick on a shy classmate, Lou uses playful mischief and quick thinking to shift the dynamic, showing that power can belong to kindness as much as to fear. The tale unfolds with light humor and warm color, inviting viewers to see how a simple, unseen force can influence who speaks up and who stays silent. There are no big twists, just a clear message about empathy and courage. The style blends bold shapes with warm lighting as the guardian manifests from a plain box into a playful ally.

Directed by Dave Mullins for Pixar, Lou is an original short that premiered in 2017 as a companion to Cars 3. It showcases Pixar's playful warmth and inventive animation without adapting any external material. Its concise runtime preserves impact.

In 2018 Lou was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film at the 90th Oscars. The nomination reinforced Pixar's track record for thoughtful, compact storytelling.

The short resonated with families and teachers for its creative take on bullying and inclusion. Lou's gentle monster became a memorable stand in for unseen guardians, turning a simple lost-and-found box into a symbol of protection and kindness in shared spaces. It's frequently used in classrooms and festivals.

Critics welcomed its brisk pace and humor while praising a tight, humane message about courage and looking out for others. The film centers on community, empathy, and the idea that a few thoughtful actions can reshape a crowded, tense place for better. Its message lands with both kids and adults.