Ghanaian animation studio AnimaxFYB has scored its second selection at the prestigious Annecy International Animation Film Festival with its latest short film, Blinded by the Lights. The film, a bold and visually arresting critique of political leadership and neocolonialism in Africa, is set to screen in the festival’s 2025 edition under the “Perspectives” category.
This selection marks another milestone for AnimaxFYB Studios, whose earlier short film ROOM 5 was also featured at Annecy, one of the world’s most renowned animation festivals. The achievement reflects the growing impact of African animation on the global stage.
Directed by Francis Y. Brown and produced by Dante Kaba, Blinded by the Lights delivers an unflinching allegory on greed, corruption, and betrayal. Set in a metaphorical world, the film follows the story of leaders who, blinded by their lust for power and personal gain, lose sight of their responsibility to the people they once vowed to serve.
“As an African filmmaker, my work is driven by the need to tell stories that challenge, provoke, and reflect the realities of our continent,” Brown says. “Blinded by the Lights holds up a mirror to society, exposing the unchecked greed of those in power and the devastating consequences that follow. My goal is to spark conversations that lead to introspection and action.”
Producer Dante Kaba echoes that sentiment, emphasizing the role of animation in global discourse. “Animation is one of the most powerful storytelling mediums we have. With Blinded by the Lights, we’re not just making a film—we’re making a statement. It’s time for African animation to take its rightful place on the world stage.”
The Annecy International Animation Film Festival, held annually in France, is regarded as the “Cannes of Animation,” celebrating groundbreaking work from studios and filmmakers around the world. The inclusion of Blinded by the Lights in the 2025 lineup signals a rising recognition of African voices in animation, telling complex and urgent stories that resonate across cultures.
AnimaxFYB Studios continues to push the boundaries of storytelling through animation, focusing on narratives that are socially relevant and deeply rooted in African perspectives. With Blinded by the Lights, the studio reaffirms its commitment to making African stories seen and heard on a global platform.
