A major moment. A powerful affirmation. A win for purpose-driven storytelling.
We’re proud to announce that Captain Zero: Into the Abyss Part II has officially been nominated for the 57th NAACP Image Awards in the category Outstanding Short Form (Animated).
This nomination isn’t just about animation or superheroes — it’s about representation, mental health, vulnerability, and perseverance. It’s about telling stories that reflect real emotional journeys and showing that strength doesn’t always look like invincibility.
More Than a Superhero Story
Captain Zero is a story rooted in truth. It explores mental health, internal battles, and the courage it takes to become who you’re meant to be. By centering vulnerability and self-discovery, the film challenges traditional narratives and opens space for deeper conversations — especially within Black storytelling, where those stories are too often overlooked.
From its community-backed beginnings to national cultural recognition, this nomination proves what’s possible when storytelling is fueled by purpose and collective belief.
A Milestone for Independent Animation
This marks Captain Zero’s first-ever NAACP Image Award nomination, and it represents a huge milestone for:
- Independent animation
- Black creators and storytellers
- Mental health representation on screen
It’s a reminder that stories created with care, authenticity, and intention can reach major stages — and change lives along the way.
Voting Is Open — and We Need You
If we’re going to win, we need your support. Voting is open now, and you can vote daily until February 13th.
How to Vote:
- Visit: https://naacpimageawards.net/nominees/
- Click Motion Picture
- Scroll down to Outstanding Short Form (Animated)
- Find Captain Zero: Into the Abyss Part II and click Vote
- Click Back to Categories
- Vote for the remaining categories
- Scroll down and tap Submit Now
- Enter your email and click Submit
You can also vote directly here:
https://naacpimageawards.judge.live/
Every single vote helps amplify stories that matter.
Why This Matters
Captain Zero proves what happens when storytelling meets purpose. This project exists to remind us that vulnerability is strength — and that stories can heal, connect, and even save lives.
Thank you for believing, supporting, and standing with us on this journey.
Let’s bring this home.
Vote daily. Share widely. And keep pushing stories forward.
Captain Zero: Into the Abyss Part II is a deeper dive into the world and psyche of Xerxes Hughes, a teen superhero who must uncover the cause of his random blackouts in order to stop his depression demon–a physical manifestation of all his deep-seated insecurities in order to save his city and himself. This sequel stars Angelica Ross, Keith David, Zolee Griggs, Coty Galloway, Marion Toro and Jazz Walker.
Here is the trailer: