Ceiba Y Sus Raíces Taínas- CG Animated Short Film

Ceiba Y Sus Raíces Taínas- CG Animated Short Film

Disaster strikes the island of Puerto Rico as Guabancex, Spirit of Chaos, leads a Hurricane. Ceiba, a disabled young woman in a wheelchair, calls upon the Spirit of Protection , Yúcahu, to prevent catastrophic doom.  Ceiba realizes that only she has the power to stop the storm from destroying her beautiful island.

"I created this story since I have a disabled older sister, and growing up, I didn’t see much representation for people that have disabilities within animation. Often times, disabilities are presented as a pitiful moment, or as characters we should feel sorry for. How often have we seen disabled heroes in media?

In addition to disabled representation, I want to shed light on the history of Puerto Rico, which begins far before it’s colonization. I wanted a story that emphasized the resilience of an island consumed by the wrath of sea, and it’s people that are it’s beating heart. This film intends to educate people on the roots of the Caribbean, and encourage creativity with the discovery that one can do anything with the strength of their community and determination."

                                                     -Brithney Rivera (Director)

The Taínos were indigenous people who lived in the Caribbean before colonization in 1492. They are said to be wiped out by the first wave of European settlers, but the reality is that the culture is still alive and exists today, passed down through generations of stories through communities.

The Taínos believed in several spirits that protected them and made offerings for different seasons. With the recent waves of disaster hitting Puerto Rico, people have begun to look back and learn about these spirits to face incoming natural destruction.

The spirits in our story are “Guabancex” (wah-Bahn-seh) and “Yúcahu” (Yoo-cah-ooh).

Character Work

Animation Breakdowns: To Final Image

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