There’s a new animated gem streaming on Amazon Prime, and it’s more than entertainment — it’s a feel-good fly-by packed with purpose. Smiley the Flight Attendant, the brainchild of Atlanta’s own Sonia Jenkins, is a 10-minute animated film that elevates the travel experience into a classroom for life. Born from Sonia’s real-life experience as a former flight attendant, Smiley isn’t just a name — it’s a philosophy.
Jenkins launched this “book-the-film” project in 2020 after stepping away from flying due to the pandemic. But instead of leaving the skies behind, she transformed her airborne wisdom into a story that’s part safety manual, part self-help and all heart. From surviving severe turbulence with grace to diffusing in-flight drama, Jenkins shows us that the key to navigating life — or 30,000 feet — is staying calm, smiling and expecting a solution.
Smiley’s Hollywood debut at the TCL Chinese Theater during Indie Night Film Festival put the project on the map, but its real power lies in its message. As Jenkins puts it, “Your attitude determines your altitude.” That’s gospel whether you’re in the clouds or just trying to make it through the day.
Through the animated lens of Smiley, passengers young and old are taught five golden rules of air travel — safety first, pack light, stay in your seat until it’s time, and yes, smile. She even throws in a bonus tip: don’t be that high-maintenance passenger looking for five drinks and a blanket on a short haul. Smiley is here to educate, entertain and elevate.
And here’s the beautiful part: this isn’t a major studio flick — it’s an independent production. So every rental ($2.99) or purchase ($9.99) directly supports an indie creative turning real-life turbulence into teachable moments.
In Jenkins’ own words, “Sometimes you just have to sit still and be safe.” That truth lands whether you’re bracing for turbulence or just navigating daily life. So, buckle up, stream the film, grab the book and let Smiley the Flight Attendantshow you how far a good attitude can take you.
Watch and support:
🎬 Smiley the Flight Attendant now streaming on Amazon Prime Video
📖 Available on Amazon.com, Moo Bookstore (Greensboro Mall, ATL), and Nubian Bookstore
🔗 Learn more at soniaspotlight.com
📲 Follow @SoniaSpotlight
