Trees Blood - A Reel Start Exceptional Minds Partnership

About This Project

Summary

With the support of Paramount Animation, Reel Start, and Exceptional Minds, two non-profits committed to developing an inclusive next-generation entertainment workforce produced two original animated shorts, TREE’S BLOOD and PEPPERMINT SPIRAL. Written and developed by Reel Start classrooms serving high schoolers from diverse backgrounds and designed and animated by Exceptional Minds' young adults with autism, featuring voice work by Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem cast members.

Goals & Objectives

Funding the partnership supports Paramount Picture’s commitment to developing an inclusive next-generation workforce and enables both organizations to provide neurodiverse and diverse students hands-on experience and credits in the entertainment industry, addressing entry-level access challenges.

Results & Impact

24 Reel Start students explored careers, developed skills, and collaborated with professionals to create two short films. Meanwhile, 20 Exceptional Minds graduates gained paid employment in animation and visual effects. Premieres were held at Nickelodeon Studios in Dec and TIFF Lightbox in July 2023