Beloved actor Ariel Winter, best known for her roles as Alex Dunphy on Modern Family and Sofia on Sofia the First, lends her voice and creative touch to director Sy Huq’s latest short film, Wild & Free, which premiered on Winter’s Instagram on December 24, 2024. The short film has already captivated audiences, racking up over 350,000 views on the platform.
Wild & Free is an emotionally resonant and visually striking short that explores themes of self-discovery, freedom, and resilience, told through the unique lens of a dog’s journey across the American Southwest. Winter voices the lead character, Ghost, a rescue dog, navigating the changes and challenges of life.
“This project holds a special place in my heart,” said Winter. “Not only did it give me a chance to work with Sy Huq again, but it also allowed me to combine my passion for storytelling with my love for animals and rescue advocacy. With our star, Ghost, actually being the product of an accidental litter, we were able to raise awareness for the importance of spay and neuter, and the reality of shelters being filled with dogs just like her patiently waiting for a furever home of their own. Ghost’s journey in the film is one of healing and exploration, which resonates deeply with so many of us after the challenges of the past few years.”
Director Sy Huq shared the inspiration behind the film, which was born during the pandemic. “Wild & Free was about creating light in dark times. I wanted to capture the perspective of adventure and healing that comes from embracing the unknown,” said Huq. “Collaborating with Ariel brought so much depth and authenticity to Ghost’s voice, and her performance elevated the film in ways I couldn’t have imagined.”
Since its release, the film has resonated with audiences around the globe, with fans praising its heartfelt narrative and stunning visuals. The production’s behind-the-scenes journey, from capturing breathtaking landscapes to recording voiceovers across continents, reflects the creativity and resilience that went into making the film a reality.
For more information on Wild & Free and future projects from Sy Huq and Ariel Winter, follow them on social media:
- Watch the film HERE
- Instagram: @ArielWinter
- Instagram: @Sy.Huq