SKIN DEEP is an animated short film about an adolescent Black boy navigating complex personal and social issues with an emphasis on colorism, mental health and self-love.

Young Skylar, a Black boy from the rural South, grows up in Los Angeles, California with his grandparents, Willie B and Ola. Throughout the story, Skylar struggles to adjust to his unfamiliar surroundings and is often bullied because of the shade of his skin, southern accent, and his striking features. While alone, Skylar crafts the perfect plan to wash his pain away. During this, he awakens to his true power and the responsibility that comes with being an African American boy in America.

Growing up in rural Mississippi, I’ve had my share of colorism struggles that followed me into adulthood. In 2016, I authored my first children’s book, Blacky, which explores confronting colorism and bullying head-on and embracing the power of one’s unique self. For me, it was a therapeutic release; however, I could have never dreamed of the impact it would create. 

Blacky grew in popularity, which motivated me to write an array of children’s books and launch a nonprofit foundation, iCrownedMe. Through my community outreach, I’ve heard from children, teachers, parents, and fans of the book series that they’d love to see the characters come to life.

I came to realize that a lot of children of color are not seeing enough of themselves on television screens when it comes to animation. They can’t relate to the “happily ever after” when their reality looks drastically different. What I’ve also learned is that children of color are afraid to be their authentic selves. They need stories and images that show their truth; that there is joy through pain. 

For the last year, I’ve conceptualized, written, and developed the plot and premise for an animation series that tells their stories in a unique way. I’ve been in talks with a number of production companies and animation studios here in Los Angeles, but haven’t been able to secure the proper funding to do this project justice. So, instead of waiting for a “YES”, I am asking for your support to help bring SKIN DEEP to the world.

In the midst of a global pandemic and rise in racial tensions, I believe it’s more timely than ever before to bring SKIN DEEP to life. This short film will bring light to much-needed conversations and will be both educational and entertaining to viewers of all ages. 

It is my hope that Skin Deep will encourage children to embrace self-love and self-worth.

SKYLAR

GRANDMA OLA

GRANDPA WILLIE B

CONCLUSION

This is my very first Kickstarter and I am honored to be the vessel for this incredible project and spread awareness to children of color that there is a very unique power in their skin. 

Thank you in advance for your support. 

Terrence Terrell