Swim Up Hill Animation Premieres Pilot Episode of “The Adventure of Swim Up Hill”
Groundbreaking New Series on Perseverance, Disability, and Legacy Seeks Production & Streaming Partners
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — Swim Up Hill Animation, a division of Swim Up Hill Companies & Foundation, has officially premiered the pilot episode of its debut animated series, The Adventure of Swim Up Hill—a bold, emotional, and visually rich series chronicling the real-life story of Paralympic medalist Jamal Hill.
Title screen from “The Adventure of Swim Up Hill” depicts a young Jamal in freefall—capturing the emotional weight and journey at the heart of the series.
Originally conceived as an independent short film, the project has evolved into a full episodic series after key developmental meetings with major production houses, including a Los Angeles-based studio led by Emmy Award-winning director Tommy Oliver. With the pilot complete, Swim Up Hill is actively seeking production and financing partners to bring a full season to life.
“This isn’t just a cartoon. This is my story—and the story of every kid who’s ever been told they didn’t belong,” said Jamal Hill. “With this series, we’re building a world that reflects the brilliance, pain, and beauty of real kids everywhere.”
A young Jamal envisions greatness, a visual representation of the series’ central theme: legacy born from struggle.
Set in Inglewood, California, the series follows a young Black swimmer navigating disability, identity, and intergenerational dreams. As the only African American swimmer to ever medal in the Paralympic Games for any nation, Hill’s story serves as the narrative spine of the series. Themes of perseverance, family, and self-acceptance unfold through a unique blend of humor, honesty, and heart.
The Adventure of Swim Up Hill stands at the forefront of a cultural movement—offering a multidimensional representation of Black and disabled characters in animation, and filling a crucial gap in mainstream family storytelling. With plans for 20–30 minute episodes, the production budget is estimated between $30,000–$50,000 per episode. Swim Up Hill retains full ownership of the IP and is currently exploring licensing or co-partnership opportunities with major streaming platforms such as Netflix, Max, Disney+, or Apple TV+.
Creative Team & Streaming Vision
Executive Producer: Jamal Hill
Director (in discussion): Tommy Oliver (Emmy Award winner; Sundance alum)
Production Model: Open to co-financing and studio collaboration
Streaming Vision: Exclusive digital platform placement with broad family appeal\
About Swim Up Hill Companies & Foundation
Swim Up Hill is a global movement founded by Paralympic medalist Jamal Hill to empower young people through swim education, digital storytelling, and social equity. Through its animation studio, games, and nonprofit programs, the organization is building an inclusive media and educational ecosystem that speaks directly to youth, disability communities, and families worldwide.
Ways to Partner or Support
Investors and production companies can request pitch materials
Press and media may request access to pilot screeners
Cultural institutions and youth orgs can request educational rights
Funders can support full-season development and streaming rollout
To contribute or learn more, visit https://www.swimuphill.org/animation
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