Ming-Na Wen Joins Animated Short ‘Enormous,’ A Comedy on Mental Health

The veteran actress is part of a surprising ensemble, including Tony Hale and Mel Brooks, for a film that addresses overcoming sadness with the help of a pug.
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Digitoonz Animation Studio/Cookbook Media

The actress Ming-Na Wen, recognized for her extensive work across television and cinema, has joined the voice cast of the new CG-animated short film, “Enormous.” The comedy, which blends humor with themes of mental health, is inspired by the personal experiences of its creator, Stephen Kramer Glickman.

The project, which is filming in Bogotá, Colombia, is notable for its eclectic mix of performers. Wen will join the previously announced comedy legend Mel Brooks and Spencer Grammer, as well as Tony Hale and the Wu-Tang Clan rapper Ghostface Killah.

Exploring Emotional Terrain

“Enormous” draws its premise from Glickman’s journey of overcoming depression through the affection of his dog. The short film follows a man, named Stephen, who is devastated by a breakup and sinks into sadness. His only companion in his otherwise empty home is his pug, Jelly Donut, who finds an unexpected means to help him rediscover joy.

Ming-Na Wen commented on the emotional depth of the script. “The story of Enormous hits my emotions in so many ways. Love. Heartbreak. Friendship. Survival. Hope. Stephen’s creative genius Is his ability to weave all these themes In a minimalistic but visually Impactful way,” she said.

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Mel Brooks, whose involvement immediately signals a project aiming for classic comedy, also emphasized the film’s underlying sensibility. “When Stephen first shared this big-hearted story with me, I immediately said yes to lending my voice. I am excited to be a part of this sweet and touching project,” Brooks stated.

The film’s production is a multinational effort. It has been officially greenlit by India’s Digitoonz Animation Studio, with pre-production designs contributed by Demente Studios in Guadalajara, Mexico.

The director of the film is Doug Sweetland, an Academy Award nominee for the short film “Presto.” The project will make its industry debut at MIPCOM this October, where it will be shopped to buyers. It has already been invited to screen at the ANIMAYO International Animation Festival in the Canary Islands in 2026.

Read More: K-Culture’s Paradox: Why Netflix is Winning the Global Race, but Korea’s Film Industry is Starving

Ming-Na Wen expressed her enjoyment of the creative process: “It was such fun working with him on his special animation. I adore Stephen and his enormous heart and talents!”

Tony Hale echoed this sentiment, stating that accepting the role “was an easy yes for me,” adding, “Stephen has balanced both heart and humor in this film, and that’s always the best stuff to do.” Ghostface Killah also related to the script. “I connected with Stephen’s story right away,” the rapper said. “Music has always been about truth and survival for me, and Enormous tells that same kind of real story, but in animation.”

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