A 3DCG film telling the story of the famed giant Galápagos Islands tortoise, the rarest creature on Earth, is being developed by James Leon’s 8th Gear Entertainment and Ted Field’s Radar Pictures.
8th Gear Entertainment’s James Leon and Radar Pictures’ Ted Field (Jumanji, Chronicles of Riddick) are teaming to bring the true story of famed giant tortoise Lonesome George to the big screen in a new 3DCG animated adventure film.
The real Lonesome George was known as the rarest creature on Earth. His life and story continue to inspire and serve as an international symbol for conservation efforts in the Galápagos Islands and throughout the world. George is now preserved at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Ecuador, where he is visited by over 100,000 people every year. As a tribute to George and his legacy, his image is enshrined as the logo of the Galápagos Conservancy and The Charles Darwin Foundation.
From a story by Leon in collaboration with James Byrkit (Rango), the movie will follow Lonesome George, the giant tortoise of the Galápagos, the last of his kind, as he sets out on an epic adventure to find others like him and discovers the true meaning of family.
“Lonesome George is a remarkable true story of a one-of-a-kind survivor,” said Leon. “The legend of Lonesome George is a cherished part of Ecuadorian history and beloved by people around the world. This is the first time Lonesome George, and his story will be brought to the big screen.”
Field adds, “This will be a brilliant, animated feature that is hugely enjoyable for kids, grownups, and everyone in between. There is something for everyone here and we’re proud that it also delivers an environmental message that everyone can get behind.”
The movie aims to bring to light environmental issues that affect our planet, conservation and the ongoing evolution of ecosystems and its impact on the future of the environment and the world. A percentage of the revenue generated by the film will be donated to the Leaders for Change Foundation, which brings awareness to the necessary protection of the world’s greatest ecological wonder, the Galápagos Islands.
Ecuador President Guillermo Lasso Mendoza notes, “We have taken careful consideration in supporting a project like this, which expresses the importance of maintaining the ecological homeostasis of this beautiful region and conservation of its endemic species. That is why, I as the President of Ecuador, and the Ministry of the Environment, fully endorse this magnificent project, because we believe in its educational value, in the impact it will have on scientific research, and in the help it will provide in raising awareness of the significance of its existence.”
President Lasso Mendoza adds, “Being considered a Natural Heritage of Humanity is a source of pride not only for Ecuadorians but for all those wanting to make an impact on environmental awareness. This movie will ultimately bring the attention it deserves.”
Leon produces the animated family film alongside Field, Anthony Tringali, Maria Frisk and Michael Napoliello, with Byrkit serving as both producer and screenwriter.
In addition to Lonesome George, 8th Gear Entertainment and Radar Pictures are partnering to bring the fast-paced sport of FIA ABB Formula E racing to the big screen through the female-centered action-thriller Breakneck. The project is a franchise starter in the vein of Fast & Furious with full FIA ABB Formula E backing and participation.
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
