How Pixar’s “Self” Inspires Cultural Acceptance
Pixar’s short film “Self” showcases a journey of self-discovery amidst cultural diversity.
Last month, Pixar released a short film on Disney+ titled “Self,” portraying the journey of a wooden doll yearning to belong in a world that is built differently.
Having watched “Self,” I found myself mesmerized by its exploration of self-acceptance, particularly the acceptance of one’s cultural identity.
As an Indian-American man, I navigate through multiple cultures, often grappling with questions of identity and belonging in various spaces. Our multicultural society sometimes overlooks the fact that not everyone hails from similar backgrounds, which is why it is essential for us to extend empathy towards people who are different. Unfortunately, this endeavor is not as straightforward as it may seem. Enter “Self,” a story of cultural diversity, identity formation, and ultimately, self-acceptance.
Recently, I had the privilege of attending a session at the South by Southwest conference led by Searit Kahsay Huluf and Eric Rosales, the director and producer of “Self”, respectively. Their insights into the development of “Self” showed me how culture was thoughtfully integrated into the storyline.
Huluf revealed how “Self” drew inspiration from her own Ethiopian heritage. The doll’s almond-shaped eyes, a characteristic feature of many Ethiopian women, served as a primary means to convey Self’s emotions in this non-verbal world. Self’s attire, blending Ethiopian design with American style, mirrored Huluf’s own multicultural upbringing, highlighting the beauty of cultural fusion and representation.
Self’s handcrafted wooden exterior juxtaposed the sleek, shiny appearance of the other characters in the film. The visual contrast underscored the societal pressure to conform to what society deems beautiful. When I watched the film, I questioned whether Self’s differences should be perceived as flaws or a reflection of societal biases.
During the session, Huluf and Rosales spoke about their intentional decision to use stop motion, a flipbook-style animation, for Self against a smooth 3D, computer-generated backdrop. This artistic decision served as a metaphor for the multicultural mosaic we inhabit, where individuals may not look, sound, or behave like the communities they live in.
Pixar’s “Self” resonated with me deeply because it posed thought-provoking questions around multiculturalism and championed self-acceptance. I believe that films like “Self” play a vital role in fostering empathy, understanding, and appreciation for different cultures. Furthermore, they empower viewers, particularly ones from minority communities, to embrace their heritage and celebrate their uniqueness.
As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, cross-cultural storytelling serves as a bridge to unite diverse communities. Stories like “Self” remind us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage while also embracing the culture of our surroundings. They also offer us solace through their wisdom and resilience, reminding us that true belonging begins with embracing our authentic selves.
