Cartoon Network Studios Aligns with Exceptional Minds for Shorts

Cartoon Network Studios and Exceptional Minds, a non-profit academy and studio preparing young adults on the autism spectrum for careers in Hollywood, partnered to release an animated shorts collection.

“At Exceptional Minds, we are committed to creating pathways for artists on the autism spectrum to share their creativity with the world and to support their employment opportunities,” said Lauren DeVillier, CEO of Exceptional Minds. “Working alongside Cartoon Network Studios gave our artists the chance to tell their stories on a larger stage, and the results are nothing short of inspiring.”

Each of the four shorts, now available on the Exceptional Minds YouTube channel, were written and directed by alumni of the Exceptional Minds Academy, supported by artists and producers at Cartoon Network Studios.

Courtesy Clerk, written and directed by Craig Hills, follows as a courtesy clerk goes through the challenge of serving a customer by shopping for the many things on her list. Voice artist Rob Paulsen contributed his vocal talents to both characters.

Cutting Ties, from Charlotte Snare, tells a story of loss through black-and-white characters and landscape and no dialogue.

Success, by Eli Gross, provides a new take on the classic tale of the tortoise and the hare.

Proud Bird, from Dustin Noriyuki, centers on a daring young pilot who embarks on an unexpected encounter.

Overall, more than 20 Exceptional Minds current students and alumni contributed to the creation of the four shorts.

The non-profit organization Jazz Hands for Autism composed original scores for select films.