We partnered with PNW-based filmmaker Dru Holley and Black Bald Films to create the animated scenes in the new documentary Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts, which just premiered at the Seattle International Film Festival early 2022.

Based on real people, events, and historical photos, our team of artists created illustrations in a unique painterly style and color palettes. Animation and camera movements were kept to a minimum as to allow the emotion to be conveyed through each scene’s shot composition and detailed facial expressions. Quick transitions were paired with the narration to bring the viewer from scene to scene. Overall, we created roughly 200 seconds of animated content over six scenes, including the enlistment of Moses Williams, the life of Cathy Willaims, the battle of Mexico, and the final ride of Charles Young.

It was an honor to work with local filmmakers on this incredible project. Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts explores the often-contradictory role played by the Buffalo Soldiers throughout American history, with particular emphasis on the settling of the American West.