2015: Update
It was 1990...Over 25 years ago, when I wrote a story with a working title called, "Auckland Island".
I dreamed that my screenplay could one day become a Disney/ Pixar Feature. I worked hard and developed some characters, built 3d props and 3d characters, and kept finessing my script.
I even decided to pitch the concept in Animation Magazine's Pitch party in 2003 and was selected as an Editor pick.
It was 1990...Over 25 years ago, when I wrote a story with a working title called, "Auckland Island".
I dreamed that my screenplay could one day become a Disney/ Pixar Feature. I worked hard and developed some characters, built 3d props and 3d characters, and kept finessing my script.
I even decided to pitch the concept in Animation Magazine's Pitch party in 2003 and was selected as an Editor pick.
Fast Forward to 2015...
I am a bit saddened to hear that Moana is coming out because the story is in the very same vein as Auckland with very close similarities. On one hand, I hope it is much different so I can keep the integrity of my story, however, the fact that Disney is creating a Polynesian story/film surely takes the wind out of my sails.
I hope they succeed. Honestly I do.
Ideas only linger out there for so long until someone else beats you to the punch.
Yeah, this gut punch really aches.
Best case scenario is that the ideas are different enough and I can still pursue my story.
I guess we'll find out next year in 2016 when Moana comes out in the theater.
Auckland Island
Synopsis. Adventure. All Ages.
Written by BAllen 1990.
"Auckland Island" is a story I wrote about a young Maori boy named, Joseph. Joe is a half breed living in the bush of New Zealand. His mother is Maori and his father is Pakeha, or European. His family is very poor and live on the North Island which is barren and dry due to an old ancient curse.
The beautiful island that sits off the northern coast is called Auckland. It is lush, full of life, and has everything one could ever want.
It has been protected by the curse for nearly 100 years. The one who can break the curse by reaching the island, will rule the island.
Everyone on the shores of the North Island dream of breaking the curse by reaching Auckland. The elements (wind, sea, volcano, typhoon,etc) and sea creatures protect the island. Any attempt to Auckland is extremely dangerous and many have lost their lives in their attempt to reach the island.
Year after year, the northern island is becoming a wasteland. Auckland is their only hope for survival, but only a Maori can break the curse. Will Joseph succeed in his dream to reach the island? You'll have to find out.
This script would make an awesome CG film. I illustrated some concept artwork as I immersed myself into the Maori culture. I built some Maori rafts and a few of the main characters in 3d. I also worked with Maya's ocean/ water FX in 3d.
Its pretty amazing how you can get a realistic looking ocean. (see below for my 3d raft and 3d ocean)
"Auckland Island" is a story I wrote about a young Maori boy named, Joseph. Joe is a half breed living in the bush of New Zealand. His mother is Maori and his father is Pakeha, or European. His family is very poor and live on the North Island which is barren and dry due to an old ancient curse.
The beautiful island that sits off the northern coast is called Auckland. It is lush, full of life, and has everything one could ever want.
It has been protected by the curse for nearly 100 years. The one who can break the curse by reaching the island, will rule the island.
Everyone on the shores of the North Island dream of breaking the curse by reaching Auckland. The elements (wind, sea, volcano, typhoon,etc) and sea creatures protect the island. Any attempt to Auckland is extremely dangerous and many have lost their lives in their attempt to reach the island.
Year after year, the northern island is becoming a wasteland. Auckland is their only hope for survival, but only a Maori can break the curse. Will Joseph succeed in his dream to reach the island? You'll have to find out.
This script would make an awesome CG film. I illustrated some concept artwork as I immersed myself into the Maori culture. I built some Maori rafts and a few of the main characters in 3d. I also worked with Maya's ocean/ water FX in 3d.
Its pretty amazing how you can get a realistic looking ocean. (see below for my 3d raft and 3d ocean)