The Nimona Movie Finds New Life at Netflix
The upcoming Nimona Movie is a triumphant phoenix rising from the ashes, as the beloved graphic novel adaptation has found a new home at Netflix. After the unexpected closure of Blue Sky Studios, the animated film had been left in limbo for years, causing doubt and uncertainty for its creators. However, Annapurna Pictures stepped in to produce the film, allowing it to finally see the light of day.
ND Stevenson, the author of Nimona, expressed their amazement and relief at the revival of the project. Initially developed at Blue Sky Studios, the closure of the studio after the Disney acquisition seemed to spell the end for the movie. But to their surprise, the film was picked up by Netflix and is now on track for release.
Blue Sky Studios closed its doors in February 2021, resulting in the cancellation of several projects, including Nimona. Director Troy Quane revealed that despite the closure, about 70 percent of the film's layout had already been completed.
When the project was given a new lease on life, a new team had to be assembled to rebuild the progress that had been lost. The story of Nimona, a tale of a young girl facing adversity, mirrors the challenges faced by Blue Sky Studios and the need to persevere.
The closure of Blue Sky Studios was unexpected and caused anxiety among employees, but the directors emphasize the love and passion the team had for their work. Many former employees have since found success in new projects, and returning to Nimona is a testament to the resilience of the team.
The pandemic added to the bittersweet farewell for Blue Sky Studios, as a Zoom call became the final goodbye for Nimona. Director Nick Bruno recalls how close they were to showing the story reels when the studio closed its doors.
Now, the completion of Nimona and sharing it with former Blue Sky employees is described as cathartic and uplifting. It's a celebration of the film's triumph over adversity and a way to honor the legacy of Blue Sky Studios.
The new vision for Nimona retains the personality, themes, and love from the original project, despite the need for remaking. Animation has a magical quality that cannot be replicated, and it's the perfect legacy for Blue Sky Studios.
The release of Nimona on Netflix is highly anticipated, marking a triumphant comeback for the beloved graphic novel. ND Stevenson hopes that the film resonates with audiences and brings the story of Nimona to a wider audience.
"I hope it's a success," Stevenson says, "I really want it to do well. It's my little baby."
Director Troy Quane echoes the sentiment, expressing his excitement for the film's release and hoping that people can see themselves in Nimona.
"It's a story about being different," Stevenson says, "It's a story about not being afraid of who you are."
