From film school, to interning and directing the first stop-motion short film through Pixar’s Sparkshorts and most recently named in 2024 Variety’s Top 10 Animators to Watch List, Searit Huluf brings lived experience and visual texture to the screen.
Africa Film Festival will be running from 19 – 21 July and Searit’s Self will be screening as a part of AFROFUTURES ANIMATION on Saturday followed by a Q&A.
Self is also streaming on Disney+
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Summary
From the hallways of film school to being named one of Variety’s Top 10 Animators to Watch in 2024, Searit Huluf’s journey in animation is nothing short of remarkable. With a background that beautifully intertwines her East African roots and American upbringing, Huluf has carved out a unique space in the world of stop motion animation. Recently, she shared her experiences on the For Your Reference Podcast, offering insights into her creative process, cultural identity, and the importance of representation in animation.
Early Beginnings
Huluf’s story starts with her family fleeing civil war in Ethiopia and resettling in America. Growing up in government housing, she nurtured her curiosity and passion for learning, despite the hardships. Reflecting on her childhood, Huluf emphasized the resilience and survival instincts that drove her parents’ migration. This backdrop formed the foundation of her journey into the world of film.
“I was always very curious and very eager,” Huluf remembers. A lightbulb moment occurred when a high school competition introduced her to filmmaking, setting her on a path that would lead to UCLA film school and internships at major studios like Cartoon Network, DreamWorks, and Pixar.
Embracing Heritage
For Huluf, tapping into her Ethiopian heritage has been both a personal and creative endeavor. Discussing her animated film “Self,” she delves into how her work reflects her journey of self-discovery and cultural heritage.
“I wanted to show that… she also animated differently for me,” Huluf explained, highlighting how stop motion was used to express her protagonist’s unique sense of belonging. Her dedication to authenticity also led her to involve cultural consultants in her projects, ensuring that every element resonates deeply with audiences of similar backgrounds.
Film Festival Circuit
Traversing the global film festival circuit, Huluf’s work has garnered acclaim and sparked important conversations. She shared an endearing moment from the SF Film Festival where a young student’s heartfelt note affirmed the impactful message of “Self.” Such interactions, Huluf notes, are invaluable as they provide a glimpse into how her work resonates with the audience.
Challenges and Triumphs
One challenge Huluf candidly discussed was presenting her work to her immigrant mother, who initially struggled to grasp the significance of her achievements. This cultural disconnect, however, turned into a hidden advantage, freeing Huluf from many conventional pressures and allowing her creativity to flourish unimpeded.
When asked about the nuanced interpretations of “Self,” Huluf remarked on the beauty of filmmaking—how once a film is released, it belongs to the audience and their personal interpretations. This emphasizes the collaborative nature of art and the rich tapestry of human experience it reflects.
Love for Anime
A self-professed anime enthusiast, Huluf’s tastes range from “Attack on Titan” to classic series like “Inuyasha” and “Bleach.” Her passion for storytelling transcends mediums, influencing her work in stop motion and serving as a testament to the universal appeal of animated narratives.
Conclusion
Searit Huluf’s journey from a curious child in government housing to an acclaimed animator is a powerful testament to the resilience, creativity, and spirit of the immigrant experience. Her work not only entertains but also educates and inspires, creating a space where stories of belonging and identity can flourish.
As she continues to showcase her work at film festivals around the world, including the upcoming African Film Festival in Sydney, Huluf’s message remains clear: Stories of diverse experiences matter, and they deserve to be told with authenticity and respect. If you haven’t seen “Self” yet, it’s available on Disney Plus, and it promises to be a thought-provoking experience.
Recommended Viewing
For those inspired by Huluf’s journey and work, she recommends pairing “Self” with Barry Jenkins’ “Moonlight,” a film thatalso delves deeply into themes of identity and belonging. Both pieces offer rich, reflective narratives that explore the intricacies of self-awareness and acceptance.
Huluf’s story is an enriching reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of representation. Whether through her films, her presence at film festivals, or her candid discussions on platforms like the For Your Reference Podcast, she continues to pave the way for future generations of animators and storytellers.