## Legendary Grammy Winner Ruben Blades Lends His Voice to Climate Change Animated Feature ‘Black Butterflies’
Los Angeles, June 9, 2024 (11:00 PM PT) – Twelve-time Grammy Award-winning Panamanian musician, actor, and human rights advocate Ruben Blades has contributed an original song to “Black Butterflies,” an animated film that poignantly explores the dire consequences of climate change. The film will make its global premiere at the prestigious Annecy Animation Festival’s Contrechamp competition.
A Cinematic Journey into the Ravages of Climate Change
“Black Butterflies,” a meticulously crafted 2D animated film, delves into the real-world struggles faced by communities disproportionately affected by climate change’s devastating impact. The narrative follows three distinct yet interconnected stories of Lobuin, Vanesa, and Soma, women from diverse corners of the globe united by a shared adversity: the loss of their homes and livelihoods due to environmental degradation.
Blades’ Heartfelt Anthem for a Pressing Global Issue
Ruben Blades, whose profound artistry and unwavering social conscience have earned him accolades worldwide, lends his musical prowess to “Black Butterflies.” His original song serves as a poignant anthem that resonates with the film’s urgent message.
“Climate change as a catalyst for human migration is a critical issue that requires our immediate attention,” said Blades. “Black Butterflies’ probes this issue with depth and sensitivity, raising a fundamental question: will future generations inherit a livable world?”
A Labor of Passion for Director David Baute
“Black Butterflies” is the brainchild of director David Baute, whose passion for environmental storytelling drives the film’s authenticity.
“I am compelled to illuminate the environmental struggles our planet faces,” said Baute. “Animation offers a unique platform to explore the complexities and human toll of climate change. Through our team’s dedication and artistic vision, we aim to present a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that sparks reflection and action.”
A Collaborative Effort with Global Impact
“Black Butterflies” is a testament to the power of international collaboration. Co-produced by Ikiru Films, Tinglado Film, Anangu Grup, and the Catalan Corporation of Mitjans Audiovisuals in Spain, alongside Tunche Films in Panama, the film boasts support from prestigious organizations such as Radio Television España, 3CAT in Catalonia, Public Television of the Canary Islands, and Mogambo. Funding has been provided by Spain’s Ministry of Culture-ICAA, with additional support from ICEC-Department of Culture-Generalitat de Catalunya, the government of the Canary Islands, and the Island Council of Tenerife.
A Panamanian Triumph in the Animation Realm
César Zelada, head of Panama’s Tunche Films, expressed his pride in the film’s Panamanian roots.
“Our involvement in Black Butterflies’ is a significant milestone for Panamanian animation,” said Zelada. “With the participation of one of our nation’s most esteemed musical icons, we aim to amplify the film’s message and contribute to the growth of our country’s animation industry.”
A Call to Global Action
Edmon Roch, co-founder of Ikiru Films, emphasized the urgency of the film’s message.
“From its inception, we recognized the importance of telling this story,” said Roch. “Black Butterflies’ provides a poignant window into the plight of women forced to abandon their homes due to climate change. We trust that this film will inspire audiences worldwide to reflect on this pressing global issue and mobilize for meaningful solutions.”