Heavenly Twins: ‘Two Black Boys in Paradise’ Secures Distribution
Key Highlights:
– The short film ‘Two Black Boys in Paradise,’ which is an animation based on a poem by the awarded writer Dean Atta, has made it to the shortlist of the esteemed IRIS PRIZE.
– Not just a voice, but THE voice behind the animation is UK musician, actor, and writer, Jordan Stephens, adding some star power to the blend.
– Hold your popcorn, folks! The film will make its UK broadcast debut on Film4 later this year and has already signed a distribution deal.
– Animation’s got bling: This animation achievement caught the eyes of the folks at Skwigly Animation Magazine.
Hot Take:
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Animation Ascension – The Paradise Perspective
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When you digitally brush up poetry with animation, you get ‘Two Black Boys in Paradise.’ No, it’s not “two tickets to paradise” like Eddie Money sang, but it’s close! Penned by Dean Atta and narrated by Jordan Stephens, even Hercules would leave his labor for this epic creation. It’s chalked its path to the IRIS PRIZE, and I’d say kudos to the brains behind it. Because getting shortlisted for this honor is not a cake walk, nor a pixel walk, it’s a BIG deal. With its impending debut on Film4 making it as appetizing as a new season of ‘Stranger Things,’ let’s just say the remote control will have its paradise moment too! Now, if we could all just buy tickets to UK or get a VPN already!.setFontSize: 1rem;
“Two Black Boys in Paradise”: Pioneering a New Wave in Animation. This intriguing short film, which beautifully interweaves an award-winning poem by Dean Atta, vocalizations by Jordan Stephens, a UK musician and actor, is nominated for the coveted IRIS PRIZE. It is set to air for the first time in the UK on Film4 and will be further available for streaming on Channel 4 On Demand for a period of 12 months.
The 1 x 9′ stop-motion animated short, ideated and directed by Baz Sells in collaboration with Dean Atta and Ben Jackson, was brought to life by Manchester’s One6th Animation Studio, and supported by BFI Short Form Animation Fund and iconic actor Ian McKellen.
The IRIS PRIZE, dubbed as the “LGBTQ+ Oscars”, champions the global narration and promotion of LGBTQ+ stories. Its goal is to transcend boundaries and break stereotypes surrounding sexuality, all while celebrating diversity.
The response from One6th Animation Studio on the acclaim was:
“We’re incredibly humbled and in awe of this honour from the Iris team. Working with Dean Atta has been a journey of discovery, and we had hoped to create a story that resonated with the communities it represented. The overwhelming response we’ve received has far exceeded our expectations, especially landing an opportunity to showcase ‘Two Black Boys in Paradise’ on a platform as iconic as Channel 4.”
The Manchester-based studio recently partnered with Kurzfilm Agentur Hamburg (KFA) for the global sales and distribution rights of the film.
“From the moment we first viewed ‘Two Black Boys in Paradise’, we were absolutely captivated. Entrusted with promoting the beautiful animation of Dean Atta’s poignant poem to audiences worldwide, we feel truly honored. The film powerfully illustrates the discrimination against queer black people and inspires us to envision a world where love trounces ignorance and hatred – it’s just the film the world needs right now.”
– Kurzfilm Agentur Hamburg
‘Two Black Boys in Paradise’ (One6th Animation Studio)
Following KFA’s acquisition, the film has gained strong visibility across international film festivals. With over 13 Oscar qualifying and 10 BAFTA qualifying appearances at some of the largest LGBTQ+ festivals, along with endorsements from various film and television personalities:
“A wonderfully imaginative, original piece full of heart. Absolutely loved it.”
‒ Joanna Lumley
“Tears welled from frame one. Hours later, I’m still moved. At last, a film that sees ME. Sees US! Deep gratitude.”
‒ Billy Porter
“I found this film deeply moving – it represents truth, inspires hope and is immensely beautiful.”
‒ Omari Douglas
‘Two Black Boys in Paradise’ will feature in the shortlisted films under ‘Best of British’ at the IRIS PRIZE in Film4 by late October 2025, before being available on Channel 4 on demand for streaming.
‘Two Black Boys in Paradise’ was made possible with the support of the BFI Short Form Animation fund, awarding National Lottery funding. This nationwide initiative offers ambitious animators a unique opportunity to tap into a higher level of funding, seldom accessible to short-form productions.
Original article: https://www.skwigly.co.uk/tbbip-distribution-deal/