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Surf Soup®: Buttons Kickstarter Campaign

Surf Soup® Buttons animated short film poster, Oscar-qualified hand-drawn 2D cartoon by Donna Kay La

Support the Oscar-Qualifying Animated Short and Bring Surf Soup® to the Big Screen

Join the adventure and help bring Surf Soup®: Buttons to life on the big screen! This Kickstarter campaign supports the hand-drawn, Oscar-qualifying animated short by Emmy-honored animator Donna Kay Lau. Your pledge helps fund screenings, music, rewards, and the creative magic behind every frame. Discover how you can be part of the journey, get exclusive behind-the-scenes access, and celebrate independent animation and Chinese American storytelling.

Kickstarter

“It all started with a button…”

Promotional poster for Surf Soup® Buttons Oscar-qualifying short film, hand-drawn animation

Surf Soup® Buttons is officially FUNDED on Kickstarter!

We Did It — THANK YOU! 💛

I’m thrilled to share that Surf Soup® Buttons is officially FUNDED on Kickstarter!
From the bottom of my heart — thank you to everyone who contributed, shared, or simply sent encouragement. Every bit of support made this happen!

We’re not done yet…
Even though the campaign is funded, you can still back the project to help me go further with screenings, outreach, and sharing this story with the world. Every extra dollar helps amplify the film’s reach — and I’ll keep posting updates here so you can follow along as we head toward our Oscar-qualifying run this September and (fingers crossed 🤞) the shortlist!

Your belief in me and in this film means more than I can say.
Stay tuned — the best part of the journey is just beginning!

💛
Donna Kay Lau
Creator of Surf Soup® ButtonsExplore the latest news, reviews, and features on the most exciting art and entertainment from around the world. From movies and television shows to music, theater, and more, Surf Soup TV is your go-to source for all things entertainment. We provide in-depth analysis and behind-the-scenes looks at your favorite artists, as well as up-and-coming talent that you won't want to miss. Whether you're a casual fan or a die-hard enthusiast, we have something for everyone.

Get the Latest Updates

The Kickstarter may be funded and over — but you can still support Surf Soup® Buttons! Every donation helps us share this story with more audiences and keep the momentum going toward the Oscars. 💛

Kickstarter
Buttons surf soup kickstarted

Continued Support for Surf Soup®️

$20.00
Pay with PayPal or a debit/credit card

Even though our Kickstarter campaign has officially ended, the journey for Surf Soup® Buttons is just getting started! Your support now will help us:

  • Bring the film to more festivals and audiences
  • Promote our Oscar-qualifying run in September
  • Create educational and cultural outreach programs
  • Keep independent animation and storytelling alive

Every contribution — big or small — makes a real difference. Together, we can keep sharing this heartfelt story rooted in heritage, history, and hope. Thank you for helping us go even further! 💛

Promotional poster for Surf Soup® Buttons Oscar-qualifying short film, hand-drawn animation press

Surf Soup® Buttons Kickstarter Fully Funded

Independent Animated Short Heads Toward Oscar-Qualifying Premiere

Creator Donna Kay Lau thanks supporters, invites continued contributions, and announces September 8–14 theatrical run.

Los Angeles, CA — [August 12, 2025) — Emmy-honored TV animator and award-winning author Donna Kay Lau has successfully funded her Kickstarter campaign for her hand-drawn animated short film Surf Soup® Buttons, marking a major milestone on the road to its Oscar-qualifying theatrical premiere September 8–14, 2025.

“Thanks to our amazing backers, Surf Soup® Buttons is fully funded — but the journey isn’t over,” said Lau. “We still need your help to share this film with the world, reach more audiences, and promote our Oscar run.”

Set in Lau’s grandfather’s Los Angeles laundry during the Chinese Exclusion Act era, Surf Soup® Buttons is inspired by her Chinese American heritage and her popular Surf Soup® children’s book series. The film combines heartfelt storytelling, whimsical animation, and a celebration of resilience and community.

With the Kickstarter now complete, Lau is preparing for:

  • The Surf Soup® Buttons premiere (Sept 8–14, 2025)
  • Cultural outreach and festival submissions
  • Marketing and Oscar campaign efforts

Supporters can still contribute directly to help amplify the film’s reach, support community screenings, and keep independent animation thriving.

Press Release

About Donna Kay Lau
Donna Kay Lau is an Emmy-honored TV animator, producer, and creator of the Surf Soup® book series and animated shorts. Her work has been recognized for its cultural storytelling, artistic craftsmanship, and commitment to independent filmmaking. Lau’s projects often draw from her Chinese American heritage, blending history, humor, and heartfelt messages for all ages.


Media Contact:
Donna Kay Lau
Email: surfsouptv@yahoo.com
Website: SurfSoup.tv

Press Release

Surf Soup Presents Buttons – A Q&A with the Creator

Donna Kay Lau Q and A

🌊 OFFICIAL Surf Soup® Buttons Animated Short Trailer

Personal Note About a Dream I’m Launching 🌊✨

Dear Friends,

I’m writing to share something deeply personal and meaningful to me—a dream I’ve poured my heart into that is finally coming to life.

“It all started with a button…”

That one little spark has now grown into Surf Soup, a whimsical animated short born from my Emmy-honored work in television and a lifetime of storytelling. It’s rooted in creativity, culture, imagination—and a message of unity I believe the world needs more of right now.

I'm currently launch phase of my Kickstarter, and as I take this leap, I'm reaching out to a few people I admire and trust to ask for your encouragement, support, or simply help in spreading the word when the time comes.

Your belief in me would mean the world—whether it's backing the project later, sharing it with your community, or just sending a note of support. This project is a piece of my soul, and I’m honored to invite you into the journey.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking a moment to read this. I truly appreciate you.

Warmly,

Donna Kay Lau

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/surfsoup/surf-soup-buttons-an-asian-american-animated-short

Kickstart Donna Kay Lau

🎉 It’s Here! Watch the official trailer for Surf Soup®: Buttons — an animated short film by Emmy-honored animator Donna Kay Lau, based on a heartwarming real-life Asian American immigration story.

🧺 Born in Grandpa’s laundry and brought to life through crayons, buttons, and love—this magical short celebrates family, creativity, and immigrant resilience.

🌟 Now LIVE on Kickstarter!
Support the project and claim exclusive rewards, original artwork, and be part of the Surf Soup® legacy:
👉 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/surfsoup/surf-soup-buttons-an-asian-american-animated-short

💛 Help bring this inspiring film to life and share it with the world.

📅 Kickstarter runs July 16 – August 15, 2025 — don't miss your chance to be part of the wave 🌊

🔔 Subscribe to follow the journey + share this trailer to help spread Surf Soup® goodness far and wide!Sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date with the latest news, events, and exclusive offers from Surf Soup TV.

Kickstarter
Promotional poster for Surf Soup® Buttons Oscar-qualifying short film, hand-drawn animation

Road to the Oscar’s Surf Soup Animated Short Kickstarter

Help Kickstart Buttons

🎬 Surf Soup is Oscar-Qualifying — and I Need Your Help to Bring It to the Big Screen

My animated short film “Button” is officially set for an Oscar®-qualifying run this September in Hollywood. This deeply personal film, inspired by my grandfather’s journey through the Chinese Exclusion era, is already scheduled to premiere on Sunset in  Hollywood! — but I need your help to make the full vision happen. From the red carpet event and promotional materials to festival outreach and community screenings, every contribution brings this dream to life. I’ve also created some awesome, heartfelt rewards to thank you for supporting this creative milestone. Let’s make Surf Soup history — together.

Help me with my Oscar Dreams-Kickstart Me!

💛 This is my moment — and I can’t do it without you.
If you believe in Surf Soup, in independent animation, and in stories that matter, please consider supporting this campaign. Your contribution — big or small — helps bring Button to the big screen and beyond.

👉 Click the link below to donate and claim your reward:
🎁 [Kickstarter Link Button Here]

Let’s ride this wave together. 🌊

Kickstarter

IWe Dit It!

My Oscar-Qualifying Animated Short!

🎉 We Did It! 🎉
Thanks to YOU, we successfully Kickstarted Surf Soup® Buttons — my Oscar-qualified animated short!
I’m now on my way to Academy Award submission — and the journey has just begun.

✨ Click the Buttons Button below to learn more, watch updates, and celebrate with me!

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Kickstarter

It’s a wrap!

Thank you! But wait you can still donate and get rewards! It’s not too late!

Kickstarter
Buttons Kickstarter surf soup tv animated short Oscar qualifying

Time is running out to Kickstart my dreams! help me out!

Subject: Can I ask you for a favor?

I’ve poured everything into this project—my heart, time, and legacy. It’s my 4th Kickstarter, and I’m so close, but I need help.

Even $5 makes a difference right now. The campaign ends soon—and Kickstarter is all-or-nothing, so if I don’t hit the goal, it all disappears.

Will you support me today? Here’s the link: [insert link]

And if you’re not on Kickstarter or it’s confusing—let me know. I’ll walk you through it.

Thank you from my whole heart. Let’s finish strong.

💛 Donna Kay Lau

Kickstarter

I have only 2 weeks left and I’m 6% funded!

Kickstarter

Posters for Sale & Free Bookmarks -surfsouptv@yahoo.com

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BUTTONS Print Poster

18x14”

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BUTTONS Digital Poster

Digital PDF

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Bookmarks Free

Print & Cut

“Be part of something magical—scan to support Surf Soup® Buttons, celebrate family and creativity, and unlock exclusive rewards for this inspiring immigrant story.”


Thank you, Donna Kay Lau

An Asian American Legacy Told Through Animation

From Immigrant Struggles to Animated Dreams

Summary (Asian American + Legacy Focus):
Button is a hand-drawn animated short by Emmy-honored creator Donna Kay Lau. Inspired by her grandfather’s Chinese laundry and the struggles faced during the Chinese Exclusion Act, the film is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of Asian American families. Through visual storytelling and cultural reflection, Button preserves intergenerational memory while celebrating the power of imagination and identity. The short is now qualifying for Oscar consideration with a theatrical premiere in Hollywood.

“Buttons” is a hand-drawn animated short by Emmy-honored animator and Surf Soup creator Donna Kay Lau. Inspired by her grandfather’s Chinese laundry and the history of the Chinese Exclusion Act, the film explores legacy, imagination, and the resilience of Asian American families. With a Hollywood premiere scheduled, “Buttons” is officially Oscar-qualifying. Learn more about the film and how you can support it below.

Press Release

Privacy Policy 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mFpsy4uhh-BFMIZcH5EVVPjboc-wHfDF/view?usp=share_link

SufrsoupTV@Yahoo.com

Surf Soup Links:  https://bit.ly/m/Surfsoup

Copyright © 2012-2024  Surf Soup TV, Surf Soup, Donna Kay Lau }

Donna Kay Lau Studios Art is On! In ProDUCKtions Ink

All Rights Reserved.  

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  • Surf Soup Book Series
  • Asian Adventures
  • Banana Unicorns
  • Magical Surf Soup Books
  • Surf Soup® Mascot-EggOh
  • Translated Books
  • Surf Soup® Activity Books
  • Reader Guides Surf Soup
  • Reviews and Praise
  • Educator Resources
  • Book Launches
  • Surf Soup Book Club
  • Surf Soup® Book Series
  • Create Cartoons & Animate
  • Surf Soup TV Cartoon
  • LIVE Surf Soup TV
  • Watch Surf Soup TV
  • Surf Soup® TV Youtube
  • Shop Surf Soup
  • Special Offers
  • About Donna Kay Lau
  • About Surf Soup TV
  • Q & A with Donna Kay Lau
  • Giving Charity-Surf Soup
  • Appearances & Events
  • Donna Kay Lau IMdb
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  • Subscribe Surf Soup TV
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  • BLOG -Surf Soup® TV
  • Extras & Support
  • Thank You
  • Play Fitness & Nutrition
  • Surf Soup® -For Kids
  • Surfing - Surf Soup®
  • Behind the Scenes
  • Branding & Licensing
  • Partnerships
  • Wholesale Orders

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DeclineAccept & Close

My Oscar-Qualifying Animated Short!

🎉 We Did It! 🎉
Thanks to YOU, we successfully Kickstarted Surf Soup® Buttons — my Oscar-qualified animated short!
I’m now on my way to Academy Award submission — and the journey has just begun.

✨ Click the Buttons Button below to learn more, watch updates, and celebrate with me!

Buttons