We spoke to several members of the Mikros Animation team, who shared their favorite secondary characters from the studio’s 2023/24 projects, revealing why these figures have made a lasting impression on them and how they contribute to the broader narrative. 

Honkus from Ozi, Voice of The Forest 

Honkus is described by Olivier Martiny, Lighting Supervisor on the project, as “the last of her race.” Despite not being the most intelligent, Honkus manages to survive in a world full of danger, simply because of her unwavering dedication and loyalty. Martiny explains that it’s her fierce sense of commitment that often leads her to success, even when logic might suggest otherwise. 

Honkus’s role in the narrative is one of a relentless fighter. Martiny notes that she “gives her all as if there’s no tomorrow,” driven by a kind of blissful ignorance about her dire situation. This characteristic is both her charm and her strength. She isn’t bogged down by self-pity or fear but instead pushes forward, embodying a kind of fearless spirit that affects everyone around her. 

Anne-Sophie Palermo adds that Honkus’s straightforwardness plays a key role in the story. Like a child, she speaks uncomfortable truths out loud—often in a less-than-delicate manner—but her honesty pushes the plot forward and provides moments of reflection for the main characters. 

One of the most memorable moments in the film occurs when Honkus comes out of nowhere to save Ozi and his parents. It’s a surprising and pivotal scene that showcases her ability to succeed against all odds, highlighting her as a true underdog hero. Palermo recalls this scene as particularly striking: “The character who is often so clumsy on land turns out to be perfectly competent in the water.” This contrast adds another layer to Honkus’s complexity and charm.

Honkus may not be the lead character in Ozi, Voice of The Forest, but her contribution to the film is undeniable. Her unwavering loyalty, clumsy charm, and courageous spirit make her a standout, leaving a lasting impression on both the characters in the story and the audience.

Vic Diamond from Thelma the Unicorn 

For Vincent Duponchel, Set Surf Supervisor, and Pauline Duponchel, Global Production Assistant, the character of Vic Diamond from Thelma the Unicorn stands out as a particularly memorable figure. Vincent describes Vic as “a product of transformation for the sake of fame,” whose ironic story reflects the reality many artists face, much like Lady Gaga. He appreciates the character’s design and the way he lightens Thelma’s impostor syndrome, helping her confront her insecurities. His favorite scene is when Vic removes his dentures, humorously revealing the lengths Vic goes to for stardom—a moment that perfectly captures the superficiality of fame in the music industry. Vincent adds that Vic’s presence asks a crucial question: how many artists would achieve success without creating a public persona? 

Pauline, on the other hand, is drawn to Vic’s charisma, flamboyant attire, and his role as a comical, almost sleazy music producer. She notes that despite his questionable advice, Vic ultimately helps Thelma rediscover her priorities. His famous song ‘Up to the Stars’ is a moment she fondly recalls, as it encapsulates his flashy, larger-than-life personality. Both Vincent and Pauline agree that Vic’s presence adds humor and deeper reflections on the costs of fame to Thelma the Unicorn.

Larry Young from Kamp Koral

For Jerry George, Lead Technical Trainer at Mikros Animation Bangalore, Larry Young from Kamp Koral offers a hilarious portrayal of modern-day fitness fanatics. Always found hitting the gym, Larry’s over-the-top obsession with muscles makes him a comical counterpart to the laid-back Spongebob. Jerry especially loves the scene where Larry, eager to outdo a jellyfish’s strength, invites others to sit on him while he does push-ups, underscoring Larry’s exaggerated dedication to fitness. 

While Larry may not provide sage advice like other secondary characters, he brings a consistent blend of physical comedy and enthusiasm. His line, “Larry likes to take one for the team,” perfectly sums up his naive but sincere commitment to friendship and teamwork. Jerry admires Larry’s sportsmanship and notes how his unintentional mentorship of Spongebob and Patrick adds fun and action to the show.

Maj’el from Star Trek: Prodigy 

For Teeda Jagadiswara Rao, Team Lead, Maj’el, the Vulcan Starfleet cadet from Star Trek: Prodigy, is a deeply inspirational character. Despite her youth, Maj’el shows impressive intelligence, leadership, and empathy, balancing her Vulcan logic with the challenges of growing up. Maj’el’s bravery and refusal to leave her crew behind, even when facing overwhelming odds, resonated deeply with Rao. He sees her as a powerful example of resilience and wisdom in a character who often operates in the background but plays a crucial role in the success of missions. 

Maj’el’s defining moment for Rao is when she volunteers to lead the enemy into a trap, demonstrating her willingness to risk her own life for the team. Her legacy is one of bravery and wisdom, qualities that Rao believes make her one of the strongest supporting characters in Star Trek: Prodigy. 

Dil Pickles from Rugrats 

Finally, for Sreedhar Kumar, Senior Animator, Dil Pickles from Rugrats is not just a fun, hyperactive baby—he’s a character that reminds him of his own son. Dil’s unpredictable, mischievous actions constantly move the story forward, even if his older brother Tommy and the other babies don’t always understand him. Sreedhar loves animating Dil’s scenes, especially those that capture the chaos Dil brings to any situation. 

Despite his occasional frustration, Dil always ends up helping the group in unexpected ways. Sreedhar’s connection to the character, informed by his own experience as a father, adds an extra layer of warmth to his portrayal of Dil, who he describes as a “lovable troublemaker.”

 Chance from Ozi, Voice of the Forest 

For Vinu Krishna, Principal Artist, Chance from Ozi, Voice of the Forest stands out for his boundless energy and humor, which bring lightness to the more serious themes of environmental preservation. Chance’s playful nature is a source of comfort and support for Ozi, helping her remain hopeful as she searches for her parents. Vinu highlights a key moment when Chance, despite his usual carefree attitude, encourages Ozi to face her fears while climbing trees, showing a depth and wisdom beyond his youthful exuberance. 

Vinu feels that Chance’s lasting impact is his ability to inspire Ozi and the audience to trust themselves and those around them. His energetic spirit and unwavering loyalty leave a meaningful impression in the narrative, making him a character that viewers can easily root for.

Through these secondary characters, Mikros Animation’s talented team reminds us that supporting roles are often just as important as the leads, bringing humor, depth, and essential lessons to the stories they help shape. Each character, from the eccentric Vic Diamond to the fearless Maj’el, leaves a legacy in their respective worlds, proving that even in animation, it’s often the smaller roles that carry the biggest emotional weight.