Today, Pixar announced a new Sparkshort titled Self, set to premiere February 2, 2024, on Disney+.
Combining computer-generated animation and stop-motion (yes, you read that correctly), this Sparkshort, like prior Sparkshort releases, touches on her personal heritage and journey. Searit mentioned on Instagram, “This film marks several exciting firsts: 1) Pixar’s debut in stop-motion, 2) the first-ever collaboration with Tippett Studio, and lastly, my first time receiving full studio backing for a short film that holds a personal connection for me.”
Huluf expanded on the short film while speaking with Nerds of Color. She said that Self brings in her Ethiopian heritage and that the score, sound editing, and design would influence the emotional narrative of the film.
SPARKSHORT ‘SELF’ SYNOPSIS
A wooden doll who desperately wants to fit in makes an ill-fated wish upon a star, sparking a journey of self-discovery. Her desire to blend in with her peers leads her down a harmful path, challenging her perspective of both who she is and where she belongs. Written and Directed by Searit Kahsay Huluf and produced by Eric Rosales, “Self” is the latest from Pixar’s acclaimed Sparkshorts program.
THEATRICAL RELEASE
UPDATED: On Instagram, El Capitan Theater in California announced that Self would actually premiere in theaters after Soul from January 12-18, 2024 (exclusively at El Capitan). Find out more details about the Pixar theatrical event bringing Soul, Turning Red, and Luca to theaters nationwide.
