'The issues are universal' says the team behind animated short film 'American Sikh' set to screen at the MIAF

Melbourne-based Studio Showoff produced and directed the animation for "American Sikh" which is set to screen at the Melbourne International Animation Festival in May. Art and animation director Sean Zwan shares how Australian audiences too can resonate with this "universal" story.

The "American Sikh" team, L to R: Ryan Westra, Nathan Mulroy, Vishavjit Singh, Nick Campbell, and Sean Zwan. Credit: Studio Showoff

Key Points

• 'American Sikh' addresses universal themes of self-doubt, prejudice and resilience, resonating with audiences globally.
• The film’s multicultural landscape and shared experiences hold relevance for Australian audiences.
• Melbourne-based Studio Showoff brought Vishavjit's story to life through animations and the film is now set to screen at the Melbourne International Animation Festival.

Melbourne-based Studio Showoff have brought director Ryan Westra's vision and Vishavjit Singh's story to life.

Art and animation director Sean Zwan shared the creative process and universal relevance in a written statement for SBS Punjabi.

Set in the United States, the film follows Vishavjit's experiences of intolerance, racism and violent hate crimes he faced as a Sikh in the aftermath of the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001.

The journey leads to the turban-wearing and bearded main character finally finding acceptance in a superhero costume.

As with the United States, Australia is home to people from a wide range of cultures, languages, and religions, with over 30 per cent of Australians born overseas.

However, the Studio Showoff team said they believed the film would resonate with all Australians.

"Sikhs and immigrants from other countries who live in Australia will hopefully be able to relate to this film and be inspired by Vish's bravery, perseverance, sense of humour, and positive response to adversity," Zwan said.

An animation from "American Sikh". Credit: Studio Showoff

After Westra reached out to the team, they said they jumped on board to create the concept art.

"We helped them create a package of storyboards, character designs and style frames to aid them in launching a kickstarter campaign, and after that, we began full animation production," Zwan said.

Animation concepts and character design. Credit: Studio Showoff

The Studio Showoff team have crafted numerous animations for renowned brands such as Disney, Nickelodeon, and Cartoon Network, but "American Sikh" was different.

"A lot of the projects we animate are comedies or are created purely for entertainment purposes so to have the opportunity to help make something that clearly means a lot to people was a unique and amazing experience for us," Zwan said.

A still from "American Sikh". Credit: Studio Showoff

Zwan said he believed the issues raised in the film were "universal".

"We believe Vish's story can help inspire anyone who feels like an outsider and needs a superhero on their side," he said.

The film has received multiple nominations and awards worldwide and will screen at the Melbourne International Animation Festival (MIAF) from 5 to 12 May.

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