South Africa’s Winning Streak Continues: Local Animation Takes Home International Emmy

Adding another trophy to South Africa’s illustrious record, The Smeds and the Smoos secured the International Emmy for Best Kids’ Animation, surpassing competitors like Moominvalley.

The acclaimed 27-minute animation, currently available on Showmax, is produced by Magic Light Pictures and co-directed by South Africans Daniel Snaddon and Samantha Cutler. Snaddon, a director on Zog, a 2020 International Emmy winner, shared the limelight with Cutler as they accepted the NHK Japan Prize for Best Preschool Media in Japan, having missed the New York ceremony.

Julia Smuts Louw, a South African co-writer, adapted the bestselling children’s book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, and Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins voices the animation’s narrative.

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The Smeds and the Smoos, drawing inspiration from Brexit, emphasises unity despite differences and has garnered accolades, including the Audience Award at the New York International Children’s Film Festival and the Rockie for Children’s Animation at BANFF. It’s also a contender at the upcoming Rose d’Or Awards in London.

Julia Smuts Louw expressed gratitude for the Emmy recognition, citing the timeliness and importance of conveying crucial messages through children’s media.

Check out the trailer below:

Source: SA’s winning streak: Locally-directed animation wins International Emmy

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Picture: X / MagicLightPics

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