Nexus Studios, with bases of operation in London, Los Angeles and Sydney, has signed Neeraja Raj for global directorial representation.
Her National Film and Television School (NFTS) short Meow or Never, a beautifully crafted stop-motion madcap musical, quickly grabbed the attention of the animation industry. The piece was shortlisted for a student BAFTA, won “Best Film” at the Women in Animation 2020 Showcase and was featured in a range of international animation publications and festivals. Similarly, her charming 2D animated short, Stars, which presents an uplifting story of a young boy and his dog and their attempts at spreading joy amongst unassuming passers by, has been screened by various festivals around the world.
Raj is a director, writer, animator and a highly imaginative and gifted storyteller. Her diverse portfolio showcases a range of techniques spanning stop-motion, puppetry, 2D and 3D animation, meaning she is positioned to select the best medium to tell authentic and emotionally captivating stories. She is able to create endlessly detailed and tactile worlds and capture heartfelt performances through carefully crafted characters.
Since joining Nexus Studios, an independent film and immersive studio with animation and storytelling at its core, Raj has already landed her first commissioned project with a high-profile charity, launching early next year and is currently working on a series adaptation of Meow or Never with the Original Content team at Nexus Studios.
Nexus Studios co-founder and executive producer Charlotte Bavasso said of Raj, “Her storytelling is this perfect mix of smart, funny and unexpected, coupled with a huge attention to the craft. She is a truly original new voice in animation today.”
