Acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee has announced the world premiere of his latest animated short film, titled ‘APART’, set to debut on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. during the Tribeca Festival in New York City. This poignant 12-minute film delves into themes of human connection and resilience, all framed within the profound historical backdrop of South African apartheid.
With an impressive production scale, ‘APART’ features 18,000 individual frames crafted by a dedicated team of 266 professionals, including 157 skilled animation artists. The project, written by Lee and directed by South African artist Pola Maneli, employs four unique animation techniques—traditional 2D, cut-out, 3D, and 2.5D—highlighting a diverse visual style, as noted by Art Threat.
The gripping narrative follows the forbidden friendship between two young boys, Themba and Joel, whose bond faces immense challenges from the systemic oppression and violence that pervades their environment. The creative team dedicated over 600 days to production, utilising 14 different software tools to bring their vivid artistic vision to life.
Amid the harsh realities of South African apartheid, two boys—Themba and Joel—form a dangerous friendship. As hate and fear threaten to pull them apart, their bond faces its greatest challenge in the form of a life-saving gesture. Through their eyes, we glimpse a moment of innocence—where hope, empathy, and understanding still feel possible,” Lee commented on the story’s emotional depth.
To maintain authenticity in both cultural and historical representation, the filmmakers incorporated woodcut print techniques, honouring the legacy of anti-apartheid resistance art. The production deliberately steered clear of artificial intelligence, emphasising the value of human craftsmanship throughout the extensive creative process.
The talented roster behind ‘APART’ includes several notable South African figures, such as Grammy-winning musician Black Coffee as music supervisor and fashion designer Laduma Ngxokolo for wardrobe design. This collaboration aims to blend international storytelling with genuine South African artistic insights.
Production Detail and Information
Director: Pola Maneli (South Africa)
Writer: Spike Lee, Tim Jones, Jeff Leisawitz, Lubabalo Mtati
Music Supervisor: Black Coffee (Grammy-winning musician)
Wardrobe Designer: Laduma Ngxokolo (South African fashion designer)
‘APART’ joins a distinguished group of animated shorts that confront significant social and historical issues at prestigious festivals. According to industry analysts cited by Animation Magazine, the film’s reception at Tribeca could impact future studio investments in socially conscious animation projects.
