CineOdyssey Animation Festival

The CineOdyssey Animation Festival is a pioneering event dedicated to celebrating and showcasing the creative talents of underrepresented filmmakers in the realm of animation. The festival spans several days and features an eclectic mix of activities designed to engage, inspire, and educate attendees. Central to the event are the film screenings, carefully curated to represent a broad spectrum of genres, styles, and themes. The festival also offers a lineup of panel discussions, fireside chats, workshops, and Q&A sessions with industry professionals. These events provide invaluable opportunities for aspiring animators, students, and enthusiasts to gain insight into the creative process, learn about the latest trends and technologies, and network with peers. Guest speakers and panelists, including directors, producers, writers, and animators, share their experiences and expertise, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mentorship. Overall, the CineOdyssey Animation Festival is more than just a celebration of animation; it serves to champion unique voices, reminding everyone of the importance of diverse representation in storytelling.

THURS, APRIL 17, 2025

6:30 PM

Opening Night Film and Q&A “Collections In Black”

(The Independent Picture House, 4237 Raleigh St, Charlotte, NC 28213)

Produced by his company, 33 and a Third Media, the film, documents director DJ Big Phill’s trek across the United States chronicling the overlooked, yet lucrative history and culture of African American comic book collectors. Thompson was inspired to make this film to document this hidden, but important part of Black life.

Join us in the lobby prior to the screening for socializing, drinks (for purchase), and Red Carpet pictures.

FRI, APRIL 18, 2025

11:00 AM-1:00 PM

CineOdyssey Presents: The Vanguard Award, honoring Calvin Brown Jr

(Nine Eighteen Nine Studio Gallery at the VAPA Center, 700 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202)

The CineOdyssey Animation Festival is pleased to honor a luminary in the animation and television industry, Calvin Brown Jr., with the distinguished Vanguard Award. As a Charlotte native, his journey in the entertainment world has been marked by significant achievements, notably as a writer and producer for the beloved Disney Channel animated franchise “The Proud Family”. His creative prowess has continued to shine with his current role as a co-executive producer and writer for the franchise’s revival, “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder”, bringing new life and contemporary relevance to the series. This recognition is a testament to Brown’s substantial contributions and enduring impact on the landscape of animated and live-action television.

Light bites and wine will be served.

3:00 PM-4:30 PM

The Shero Universe: A fireside chat with Shequeta Smith, founder of Shero Comics

Harvey B. Gantt Center, 551 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202

The CineOdyssey Animation Festival, in partnership with the Harvey B. Gantt Center, is thrilled to host a fireside chat with Shequeta L . Smith, award winning writer, director, and enterpreneur. Known for her dedication to empowering women and girls of color through storytelling and technology, Shequeta is a visionary in the world of comics and animation. She is the founder of Shero Comics, a platform that champions female superheroes and highlights stories centered on women of color. Join us as we delve into her experiences, challenges, and triumphs at transforming the landscape of content creation.

6:30 PM-9:30 PM

Student Films and Panel Discussion

(The Independent Picture House, 4237 Raleigh St, Charlotte, NC 28213)

Come view a curated selection of student films from some of the top schools nationally and internationally, including the School Of Visual Arts, USC, San Jose State University, and The Animation School. This showcase is a testament to the hard work, talent, and dedication of the students, who are pushing the boundaries of animation and storytelling. Following the film showcase, stay for an engaging panel discussion on the state of animation in various entertainment spaces, including gaming, comics, and live events. Our esteemed panelists will share their insights and experiences, highlighting the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the industry.

SAT APRIL 19, 2025

2:00 PM-5:00 PM

“Project Storyboard: The Matumbilas” and film screenings

The final day of the film festival. Take a significant leap into the vibrant world of animation and cultural storytelling with this screening and talkback of the kweliTV original animated series, The Matumbilas. Crafted by the imaginative mind of creator Zulfiqar Manzi, this series is a colorful, humorous exploration of the complex dynamics within a Tanzanian family navigating life in middle-class America. This promises to be an enlightening event, providing a platform for discussions about cultural identity, family dynamics, and the creative process behind the series.

Preceded by a diverse array of animated shorts, from thought provoking documentaries to heartfelt dramas.