Dominica News Online writes about a Bermudian Canadian artist, Alex-Andre Bassett, who seeks financial support for an animated project rooted in Afrofuturism— “The Kazi: Village Rescue.” With this project, he aims “to bring Caribbean narratives to a global audience.”
A press release shared that the initiative, titled “The Kazi: Village Rescue”, exemplifies the movement’s core principles—beyond science fiction aesthetics—by emphasizing reclaiming imagination, honoring cultural heritage, and depicting Black individuals as protagonists of their own stories.
The short animation centers on Andreas, a young hero tasked with confronting corruption and safeguarding a mountainous village from an enigmatic threat. His journey embodies values highly regarded across Caribbean communities, such as responsibility, bravery, compassion, and community protection. Unlike stereotypical portrayals, Andreas is characterized as intelligent, emotionally resilient, courageous, and profoundly human, says the creator. His narrative reflects the resilience and warmth intrinsic to Caribbean culture.
Drawing inspiration from anime, fantasy, and Afrofuturist storytelling, “The Kazi: Village Rescue” captures the essence of island life while integrating futuristic elements. It aims to demonstrate that exceptional animation and compelling storytelling can originate from small island nations and resonate universally.
In the creator’s words, “The Caribbean is full of powerful stories and powerful people,” Bassett says. “I wanted to create something that shows our young men they can be protectors, leaders, and heroes, not just in real life, but in the worlds of fantasy and imagination too.”
For Caribbean audiences, the release says that the project offers a significant opportunity for island-born creativity to feature prominently in an international animated venture. It underscores the idea that Caribbean youth are not confined by geography and that their stories are deserving of epic worlds, legendary quests, and cinematic expression. [. . .] This project is dedicated to Caribbean youth who envision beyond horizons, says the creator.
Alex-André Bassett is a Bermudian Canadian writer/director whose work is deeply shaped by the island’s culture and storytelling traditions. Since moving to Vancouver, he has continued developing his craft through acting, screenwriting and directing programs. Alex’s work aims to share his imagination and island heritage with global audiences.
For full article, see https://dominicanewsonline.com/news/homepage/homepage-carousel/animator-seeks-to-bring-caribbean-youth-hero-to-screen/
To read more and to contribute, see Kickstarter.
Dominica News Online writes about a Bermudian Canadian artist, Alex-Andre Bassett, who seeks financial support for an animated project rooted in Afrofuturism— “The Kazi: Village Rescue.” With this project, he aims “to bring Caribbean narratives to a global audience.” A press release shared that the initiative, titled “The Kazi: Village Rescue”, exemplifies the movement’s core
