Pre-Visualization Pioneer Rpin Suwannath to Make Directorial Debut in Walden Media Adaptation of “The Lotus Caves”

July 26, 2007

Story is set in the year 2068, with humans living on the moon in vast colonies of airtight bubbles. Breaking out of the confines of their colony, two daring teens go looking for these paradise-like caves that are only spoken about in legends. But their quest leads them to a place where everything is magical, but nothing is what it seems.

“We are thrilled that Rpin Suwannath will be directing his first film with Walden Media. His innovative and dynamic vision is the perfect fit for a film that requires the creation of the vast intricate worlds depicted in the story,” said Walden Media CEO Cary Granat.  “This project represents Walden Media’s continued commitment to produce films that seamlessly integrate entertainment and education using cutting-edge film technology. It’s a thrilling sci-fi adventure that incorporates the latest innovations in the world of space exploration and colonization.”

Suwannath began his career interning at George Lucas’s Industrial Light and Magic and working on visual effects for “Batman Forever”. He became one of the first independent pioneers of the pre-visualization field, moving it beyond the realm of visual effects design by creating cut scenes with music and sound effects and allowing filmmakers to use computer generated animatics as story tools. Now an industry standard, Suwannath’s techniques caused pre-visualization to grow from one or two animators per project to a full fledged department in the production process. In addition to the “Chronicles of Narnia” films, in which he worked closely with director and producer Andrew Adamson, Suwannath developed pre-visualization for the “X-Men” films, “Mr. and Mrs. Smith”, and the “Matrix” sequels.   

Suwannath is represented by ICM and attorney Adam Kaller. Walden Media executive vice president of production Alex Schwartz and creative executive Bonnie Solomon will oversee the project for the company. Senior vice president of business and legal affairs Frank H. Smith negotiated the deal on the company’s behalf.

About Walden Media
Walden Media specializes in entertainment that sparks imagination and engages young people in the learning process.  Producing both original works and adaptations of acclaimed children’s literature, Walden Media projects are enhanced by comprehensive outreach and supplemental programs for teachers, librarians, and parents. Walden Media, in a joint venture with Twentieth Century Fox, formed Fox Walden in 2007 to market family films for audiences of all ages.