Julia is a South African screenwriter and novelist based in Cape Town who has made significant contributions to global animation. She co-founded Sparks Flew Development Studio with her husband, director Daniel Snaddon, creating a platform for innovative storytelling. Her impressive portfolio includes co-writing the Annie Award-winning short film Aau’s Song for Star Wars: Visions II (Disney+), marking the first African contribution to the iconic franchise. She adapted Julia Donaldson’s beloved book The Smeds and the Smoos into a BBC One Christmas Day special that garnered international recognition, including an International Emmy, the Prix Jeunesse, and the Japan Prize. Her diverse writing experience encompasses work for eTV’s Ambitions (now streaming on Amazon), Nickelodeon’s Moosebox, and the globally syndicated Supa Strikas. Beyond her screen work, Julia’s literary talents have been recognized with her short story Laatlammer being shortlisted for the Short Story Day Africa Prize and published internationally. As an industry advocate, she founded Draw for Life, teaching animation basics to underprivileged teens, and hosts the Animation SA podcast.
Sparks Flew Development Studio, co-founded by Julia Smuts Louw and Daniel Snaddon, represents a significant force in African animation development. The studio focuses on creating high-quality animated content with international appeal while maintaining authentic African perspectives. Their work has gained recognition on prestigious global platforms, including Disney+ and the BBC, demonstrating the studio’s ability to produce world-class animation from South Africa. Currently developing the animated feature Spike with international partners Submarine (Netherlands) and Diprente (South Africa), the studio has secured funding from the Thuthuka Grant (Dutch Film Fund/NFVF) and Creative Europe, highlighting their growing influence in the global animation landscape.
Julia Is Appearing In These Sessions
Walking the Queen’s Path: The Female Gaze in Contemporary Storytelling with Maureen Hascoet & Guests
Herringham Hall
Beyond gender-flipping: exploring how the female gaze is revolutionizing screen narrative
