Why the medium of animation?  What can you do in animation that you cannot do in Live Action or a different medium?

As a mission-driven storyteller working at the intersection of nonfiction film and animation, this medium allows me to visually amplify the stories I capture through oral history interviews and documentary filmmaking. In particular, it provides a platform for marginalized individuals whose rich histories were never documented in real time. Through animation I can make the stories of the past feel present again, ensuring these narratives reach and inform a wide audience.

I began my artistic journey in illustration and fine art, but felt constrained by a still canvas. It seemed there was only so much I could express in a single frame. I craved a medium where my visuals could move, speak, and emotionally connect with an audience. That pursuit led me to animation and ultimately catalyzed my education at USC. Unlike any other filmmaking medium, animation starts with nothing but an idea and a blank canvas. Every frame is created from scratch. While that can feel daunting, it’s also limitless. What you can imagine, you can create, and that boundless potential is what excites me most.

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently working on my thesis film, So Be It, an animated documentary that showcases the love stories of five senior queer couples. By documenting their resilience and lifelong commitment, the film preserves their histories and provides role models for young queer audiences. It also serves as a bridge between generations of the LGBTQIA+ community, fostering intergenerational connection and ensuring that the experiences and wisdom of the past can inspire the future. Animation allows me to transform these candid conversations into something visually immersive, bringing recounted memories to life.

What future projects do you see yourself creating and why?

I plan to expand So Be It into a long-form documentary or limited series, offering further representation of the diversity within the LGBTQIA+ community. There are so many rich and important voices to document and preserve, and I hope to continue creating space for these stories to be shared.

Beyond this subject matter, I want to further explore the potential of animated documentaries, expanding into topics across social and environmental issues. By working at the intersection of documentary, journalism, and filmmaking, I aim to use animation to uplift underrepresented voices and create meaningful, lasting impact.

What are some of the highlights of your time in the John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts?

One of the biggest highlights of my time in the John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts has been launching USC Onion Skins, an animation production club, with my friend Jules Pincus. Since its beginning, we’ve overseen the production of three films and are currently working on our fourth, providing students with the opportunity to collaborate outside of class in a mock studio environment. We take projects from concept to completion, ideating the story as a group and collaborating on each stage of production as a team of over 25 artists.

Outside of Onion Skins, collaborating with peers on thesis films and independent projects has been so rewarding. The collaborative nature of animation was one the reasons I pursued it, and I’m incredibly grateful to have worked alongside such talented and passionate artists across the entire university.

Ah, and I can’t forget about the screenings and filmmaker panel events! Getting to watch films like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and Wallace & Gromit followed by discussions with the creatives who made them has been inspiring and insightful. Even cooler that I got to do it with my best friends right on campus.

Why attend USC?

Studying animation at USC offers the best of both worlds. Not only have I received an exceptional education within my craft, but I’ve also had access to the wider university and all it has to offer. I’ve expanded my education through courses in the Iovine and Young Academy and the Marshall School of Business, gaining perspectives that have complimented my approach to my professional aspirations.

The professional opportunities also make SCA a valuable place to be. From events like Studio Day, where students connect directly with animation studio recruiters, to portfolio workshops, and mentorship from highly skilled and caring professors, there's countless opportunities to jumpstart your career and prepare you for the industry.

More than anything, it’s the people that will make you want to come to USC. It has been amazing to make friends across the university’s many schools and share space in clubs, classes, events, and independent projects. I had a ton of fun dancing with USC’s Latin dance team, Break on 2, where I tapped into my love for dance and made friends from across the University. Everyone has a unique perspective, and you never know who you’re going to meet or what you’ll learn from them.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about applying to the John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts?

Collaborate, collaborate, collaborate. Animation is a team effort, and the best learning experiences come from working with others. Build connections, support your peers, and embrace the communal nature of filmmaking.

Take advantage of every opportunity. Whether it’s a class outside your comfort zone, a club, or a student project, say yes. USC offers so many ways to grow as an artist, and the more you immerse yourself, the more you’ll get out of your education.

Get comfortable being the small fish. There is so much to explore and learn, and it’s okay to feel intimidated at times. The more you push yourself into new, unfamiliar spaces, the more you’ll grow.

Most importantly, bring your most authentic self to your work. You are a storyteller, and no film will feel as alive as one infused with your unique perspective. Trust your instincts, embrace your voice, and create the stories only you can tell.

Where can we see more of your work?

My portfolio can be viewed here: https://www.matthewsorgie.com/ or find me on instagram @matthewsorgie