Sheridan Animation Students Eye Oscar Glory

Students at Sheridan College's animation program in Oakville, Ontario, are celebrating Oscar nominations for two films created by graduates. The nominated features, 'KPop Demon Hunters' and 'Elio,' by directors Maggie Kang and Domee Shi, are contenders for best animated feature film. 'KPop Demon Hunters' also received a nomination for best original song.

For current students like Phoebe Yeonsu Lee, a fourth-year animation student, director Maggie Kang's success is profoundly inspiring, especially as a fellow woman of Korean descent. Lee expressed that Kang's achievement demonstrates the possibility for her culture and background to be significant in animation, providing a relatable role model.

Mario Positano, program coordinator for Sheridan's animation school, highlighted the program's extensive history, now over 60 years old. He noted that alumni are consistently making remarkable contributions across the industry, with notable past winners like Chris Williams and Domee Shi, whose works have previously garnered Oscars and nominations.

Graduates often find employment at major animation studios in Canada, such as those in Vancouver and Toronto, or pursue opportunities in the United States with companies like Pixar and DreamWorks. Positano emphasized that the college provides students with the creative freedom and up-to-date technological training necessary to achieve significant success in the field.

The upcoming Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 15 in Los Angeles. The success of Sheridan alumni serves as a powerful motivator for current students, fostering a belief in their own potential to achieve similar acclaim and recognition for their creative endeavors.