In the wake of the iconic original Disney’s Kizazi Moto: Fire Generation, Netflix’s Super Team 4 and Kiya and Kimoya Heroes blazing the trail for animations from Africa in 2023, TriggerFish Animation Studio from South Africa has emerged as a frontrunner at the 51st Annie Awards with an impressive six nominations.
The prestigious Annie Awards, organized by the International Animated Film Association, celebrate excellence in the animation industry, and TriggerFish’s stellar achievements underscore its commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity, storytelling and marking a triumph that reverberates through the global animation industry.
The studio’s nominations span various categories, showcasing the diversity and depth of their contributions to the animated world. From outstanding character design to exceptional story direction, TriggerFish has left an indelible mark on the animation landscape and thus giving proof that the next wealth of talents is brewed right here in Africa.
One of the notable nominations is for “Best TV Animation/Media,” where Kizazi Moto masterpiece episode Enkai (directed by Ng’endo Mukii) has captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike. The film’s unique blend of captivating visuals and a compelling narrative has garnered widespread acclaim, propelling it to the forefront of the industry.
TriggerFish’s prowess in storytelling is further highlighted by nominations in categories like “Best Direction” and “Best FX” for Moremi, a tale surrounding a lonely spirit boy trapped in the realms of the gods and haunted by monsters until he is quickly rescued by mysterious scientist Moremi from futuristic Nigeria, directed by Shofela Coker who is also co-creator with his brother Shobo Coker on the amazing Image comic New Masters. These nods affirm the studio’s dedication to finding exceptional talents and crafting narratives that resonate with audiences of all ages.
The recognition extends beyond the storytelling realm, with TriggerFish securing nominations such as “Best Character Animation” for Moremi (Shofela Coker), Surf Sangoma (Nthanto Mokgata, Catherine Green), Star Dust (Ahmed Teilab) and and “Best Character Design” for the episode, You Give Me Heart directed by Lesego Vorster, an episode depicting struggling artist Sundiata, who joins the talent competition Who Wants To Be A God? in a lavish world where gods get powers from social media reverence. These nominations speak volumes about the studio’s commitment to delivering animation that not only entertains but also pushes the boundaries of what is visually possible.
Furthermore, TriggerFish’s impact on the industry is evident in the nomination for “Best Music for Aau’s Song by Nadia Darries and Daniel Clarke”- a tale which follows Aau, a devoted daughter, whose singing endangers their planet, activating corrupted crystals in their mines, coming off as the 9th episode in the second volume of Disney’s Star Wars Visions anthology. The studio’s ability to bring characters to life through exceptional sounds and voice performances adds an extra layer of depth to their productions.
TriggerFish Animation Studio’s success at the 51st Annie Awards reflects not only on the studio itself but also on the broader animation community on the continent of Africa. The nominations serve as a testament to the studio’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and the art of animation.
As the animation community eagerly anticipates the awards ceremony, all eyes are on TriggerFish to see if they will grab victory in these highly competitive categories. Regardless of the outcomes, TriggerFish’s presence at the 51st Annie Awards set to take place on 17th of February is a celebration of their impact on the world of animation, solidifying their position as a powerhouse in the industry.
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