Animation That Defies Gravity—and Systems

 From pool to podium to purpose: The animated story of Jamal Hill’s rise begins here

The Adventures of Swim Up Hill – A New Kind of Hero’s Journey

A cartoon character of a young person with dark curly hair, wearing purple glasses and a yellow shirt, standing with arms crossed in a hallway with dark blue walls and framed pictures.
Animated illustration of a shirtless person with dark skin, curly hair, wearing blue shorts, standing with fists clenched and an angry expression.
Young person with short hair, smiling, wearing multiple medals around their neck, and a black jacket with patches, standing in front of a shelf with toys and collectibles.

A cycle of the American caste system is broken in this buoyant animated narrative of defiance, disability, and devotion. Adventures of Swim Up Hill is inspired by the true story of Paralympic Medalist Jamal Hill, who invites viewers into the Inglewood-based childhood that raised a Champion.

Hill is the first—and only—African American swimmer to ever medal in the Paralympics for any country. But before he can accept his medal… he must accept himself. Thankfully, he’s not alone.

Supported by family, friends, and a deep inner voice, this story becomes more than a swim tale—it becomes a movement.

Why This Story Matters Now

Representation Reimagined

A Black boy with a disability becomes a global hero without leaving his neighborhood.

Built from Truth

Jamal Hill’s real story brings depth, humor, and social urgency to every scene.

Globally Relevant

Themes of identity, self-worth, and resilience transcend borders and languages.

Production Status: Seeking Partners

The pilot episode of Adventures of Swim Up Hill is complete. We are now actively seeking:

  • Animation production studio partners
  • Funding opportunities
  • Distribution conversations with streaming platforms
  • Impact-driven media accelerators
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Pilot Complete
Seeking Partners
Distribution Talks
Platform Launch

Inside the World of Swim Up Hill


  • Cartoon illustration of a multi-story hospital building with an ambulance parked outside, the building has a sign reading 'HOSPITAL' at the top, a red cross symbol on the lower front, and a bright blue sky with the sun shining.

  • A boy sitting on a bench at school in front of a locker and a shark painting, with sneakers on the floor and a backpack nearby.

  • Top-down view of four people sitting around a wooden dining table, with plates, utensils, napkins, and glasses of red beverage, and a bowl of pizza with pepperoni and cheese.

  • Animated scene of a swimmer doing a butterfly stroke in a swimming pool, holding a swimsuit, with banners and signs celebrating a swimming championship.

  • Animated depiction of two characters, a woman holding a sword with a fiery glow and a man aiming a futuristic gun, facing each other with a lightning bolt or electric energy between them.

  • Illustration of a vintage car with a gold body and purple tail lights, set against an urban skyline with pink and purple hues. The car has a blue California license plate that reads 'SWIM UP HILL'. The background has a retro-futuristic style.

  • Digital illustration of hands holding a yellow handheld gaming device in front of a dark background. The screen displays a pixelated character jumping on a platform, with the number 200 to the side.

A cartoon woman thinks about a male athlete with a medal, cross-armed in front of an American flag.

From the Mind of a Medalist

“When I was growing up, I never saw a story like mine. This animation isn’t just about swimming—it’s about becoming. And it’s for every kid who’s ever had to overcome something invisible.”

— Jamal Hill, Creator & Executive Producer

We’re Ready to Partner

Want to co-produce, fund, or distribute Adventures of Swim Up Hill? Let’s talk.