Inside the official Sonic the Hedgehog movie.

[Daikun]

UPDATE: More detailed post. For the children.

This is a project that was in development for 2 years...and then Sega turned around and swiped it from the producers' hands. What could've been an official, theatrical Sonic film produced by DiC (yes, the original team behind Sonic SatAM) and distributed by Universal was started in 2006, then cancelled in late 2007 when Sega decided to switch companies. The following videos are a 3-part interview with the writer/director of the project.

Part 1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFVcKPXRkzU)
Part 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hnfijvGhrc)
Part 3 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rggorWTNvJQ)

[Ryusuke]

So let me get this straight...this is once hoax film is now...real? :confused: Or, erm...a real concept?

[Old Guy]

I was five minutes into part 1 and had to stop. It's just some geek talking about his passion for Sonic. :confused:

[Daikun]

I was five minutes into part 1 and had to stop. It's just some geek talking about his passion for Sonic. :confused:

It's not "just some geek." It's the writer/director for an official Sonic film that would've been produced by DiC and distributed by Universal had Sega not intervened.

And he talks about more than just his passion for Sonic; he gets into juicy details about the film itself.

[HellCat]

At the same time, it's a bit hard to get past his gushing

"I always felt SatAM was a result of SEGA's brilliance"

Oh geez...no wonder this never got off the ground..

[Nel]

Ah yes, I remember this guy, every few years he tries pulling this movie thing. Don't believe him. Sega themselves have contacted him before to tell him to stop promoting this thing as if it were actually real, as they only considered it once and never contacted him back.

[HellCat]

Is this the same guy who kept telling us he'd have Hillary Duff on the soundtrack?

[Dracula_Marth]

I'm not that big a fan of Sonic anymore. I couldn't see the videos so someone tell me: Is the Sonic movie going to be live action?

[R-Taco]

I'm not that big a fan of Sonic anymore. I couldn't see the videos so someone tell me: Is the Sonic movie going to be live action?

Not "is", was. It was a 90's animated project that got canned, thankfully.

[Mandouga]

"Hillary Duff"?

Considering this, and the fact that he mostly seems to talk about his personal passion for the Sonic (as a couple of you indicate), my intuition tells me that maybe, just maybe, this was for the best. It probably would have only reflected this one person's personal fandom (i.e., it probably wouldn't have reflected a worldwide view of Sonic), making it just another corporate film project.

Anyhow, what exactly does it mean when "Sega decided to switch companies"? Are they still interested in a Sonic movie?

Also, one other thing:


"I always felt SatAM was a result of SEGA's brilliance"

It sounds to me like he doesn't even know what he's talking about. If anything, it was a result of DIC's brilliance, since they were the ones who actually made the show.

[Robochao]

If TMS was gonna do the animation for this movie, I would love for them to go back in the bouncy cartoony animation like represented in this.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=sllakPKOZjc

Not stiff Sonic X.

[HellCat]

I think quite frankly the guy's potty. He seems to have built up this massive mythology that feels wrong. I mean, when he suggested "we'd see Sonic face his demons"...what? Sonic isn't such a character. His whole character is built on a noble hearted fun seeker, not some Tolkien-esque champion. What this guy seemed to be proposing was "My personal fan fic, out there in the wider world". I could understand that in pursuing a Sonic movie you might need to flesh things out a bit. But this guy doesn't strike me as any different from any other fanboy who goes around the net telling anyone who will listen of his undieing love for the American continuity and why it needs more focus.

[TKnHappyNess]

I'm not that big a fan of Sonic anymore. I couldn't see the videos so someone tell me: Is the Sonic movie going to be live action?

I sure as hell hope not. We all know what happened with the Mario movie being live action.

[DarthGonzo]

I sure as hell hope not.

They're not making this movie anyway, so you don't have to worry.

As far as what Hellcat just said: wow, that's really sad.

[HellCat]

They're not making this movie anyway, so you don't have to worry.

As far as what Hellcat just said: wow, that's really sad.

In what respect? I'm sad for saying it?

[DarthGonzo]

In what respect? I'm sad for saying it?

Oh no no no no. Not at all. I'm talking about the guy who is going on and on about how great Sega and Sonic is, whatever his name is.

[Infusions]

I've noticed that with Sonic, there's always some conflict when it comes to making cartoons about him.

He's had like, a bunch of shows and a lot of them either get cancelled or canned.

Why is it so hard to make a Sonic cartoon. :0

[Mist]

SEGA of Japan has been a roadblock keeping many filmmakers from making a Sonic the Hedgehog feature.

Ken Penders had several meetings with SEGA from 2000 to 2003 about making a Sonic feature. These never worked out, and I personally, am glad for that. People need to stop trying to revive a cancelled cartoon from 1993 that only lasted for 22 episodes. It's obscure and only appeals to a small internet following, Not to mention the storyline is basically just Star Wars with talking animals (There's even a Wizard which talks EXACTLY like Yoda in the 3rd episode. Also, Robotnik is basically Vader, Sally is Leia) and it doesnt even follow the storyline of the videogames.

Dreamworks animation was set to make a Knuckles the Echinda feature but that never worked out.

When it all comes down to it, you can have all the agents you want to help sell the thing, all the animation studios ready to do the hard labor, and all the movie companies ready to cough out the dough to fianace the thing, but if you do not have SEGA of Japan's approval, it's not going to happen.

And for that, I am glad. Let's face it. Hollywood would've just turned a Sonic movie into something like "Kung fu Panda" (I hear its a good movie, but definitely not the style for a Sonic film) "Space Chimps" or a live-action/CGI combo like Underdog. OR a SatAM inspired mess.

I think the only way we will see a quality Sonic film is if one day, a Sonic fan who grew up with the franchise approaches SEGA of Japan with a story that caters to the videogame universe, and has a writing staff that doesn't try to 'dumb it down' for a kiddie audience (I realize Sonic is for kids, but most studios today if they made a Sonic film, would fill it with fart jokes, tone down the 'action' sequences and try to make them silly, and fill the soundtrack with songs from the Jonas Brothers)

[Mandouga]

"A bunch"?

I don't mean to sound like a wet blanket, but he's only had 4 shows: 3 American ("Adventures of...", "SatAM", and "...Underground") and one Japanese (the aforementioned Sonic X). There is also a Japanese OVA movie (it was released by ADV in the U.S.).

As for "why is it so hard to make a Sonic cartoon", IMHO, it really depends on who you ask. That is, some might say it's easy, while others might say it's hard. In any case, it's not that simple however you slice it. Me? Well, my take on the whole matter is a long story, and goes beyond the parameters of this topic.

As for Sonic "facing his demons", you never really know. Maybe he did at some point, but we never see it in any TV episode or video game. I will agree however, that he is a "noble hearted fun seeker" and "not some Tolkien-esque champion".

[PC!]

That guy is just a random dude in the Sonic fandom that really wants to make his own Sonic movie. Nothing more than that.

[Charlie]

Eh, its a fan having a fevered dream that'll never come true.

[Old Guy]

it's a bit hard to get past his gushing

"I always felt SatAM was a result of SEGA's brilliance"

Oh geez...no wonder this never got off the ground..

Have you watched a show called Life After Film School? It's a show where a bunch of famous directors talking about getting into the biz. Jason Reitman (director of Juno) said in one episode that if you want to get hired you have to know how to present yourself.

With that being said...

The main reason why this guy's Sonic project never went anywhere was because he just comes across as a typical geek trying to turn his fan script into a movie.


People need to stop trying to revive a cancelled cartoon from 1993 that only lasted for 22 episodes. It's obscure and only appeals to a small internet following, Not to mention the storyline is basically just Star Wars with talking animals (There's even a Wizard which talks EXACTLY like Yoda in the 3rd episode. Also, Robotnik is basically Vader, Sally is Leia) and it doesnt even follow the storyline of the videogames.

Agreed. I never liked that ABC cartoon. I always preferred to watch the silly one that was on syndication. It's just that it's too hard to take Sonic seriously as a character. Sonic is just a "cool" version of Mario. So...to try and make something dark and deep is nonsense. Sonic worked best a silly cartoon.

[Mandouga]

Er, the "cancelled cartoon from 1993" in question lasted two seasons of 13 episodes on ABC for a total of 26 episodes.

EDIT: Oops, I'm sorry, CJ! I didn't know you were a member of this site (I thought "CjFilmz" was the same of some website). I didn't see your post from before. My bad. :(

Even so, I still think your "Star Wars" comparisons were unfair.

[Old Guy]

Er, the "cancelled cartoon from 1993" in question lasted two seasons of 13 episodes on ABC for a total of 26 episodes.

Cool Beans.

[Mist]

In responde to what Rich said about 'Sonic facing his demons'

I think if it done in a subtle way, that might be interesting.
Sonic has never had a backstory, and for his film debut, some type of origin will have to be told.

I personally, have had an idea in my head for how a Sonic film would go. I dont have any connections in the industry or anything, but anyway, these are just my thoughts.. It's kind of flawed, and needs a little work, but here you go..

The movie would start with a narration about how Sonic was orphaned and raised by an elderly echinda named Athair, who saw 'great things' in him. In the present, Sonic would basically be a carefree guy who runs around South Island everyday. One afternoon, he stumbles upon a dilapidated house, where he eats junk food, watches TV, and rummages around, he notices
a small pamphlet about 'The Chaos Emerald now on display at Station Square museum' ignoring it, he keeps rummaging, and finds a nice pair of sneakers and gloves. Athair walks in and tells Sonic to get out. He warns Sonic of a race called 'humans' who only care about themselves, a people motivated by greed. This only makes Sonic curious.

One night, while Sonic is laying under the stars, asleep, he dreams of his past, and about a childhood friend of his, a pink hedgehog girl. Suddenly, a set of explosions go off across the island. Sonic looks for Athair. Athair tells Sonic to leave and to find a boy named Miles Prower on a nearby island. Sonic is confused and tries to get Athair to come with him, but he wont budge.

Sonic then escapes, and wakes up the next day on the shore of a nearby island. There, he searches for Miles Prower, who has a Chaos Emerald, which Athair wants Sonic to keep from getting into the wrong hands. Robotnik, thinking the Emerald was on South Island, learns of his mistake, and heads for WestSide Island, where he meets Sonic for the first time. After avoiding Robotnik's machines, Sonic & Tails form a friendship and go on a journey to recover the 7 Emeralds before Robotnik can get his hands on them. The film ends with a giant battle in Station Square. After defeating Rootnik, Sonic & Tails decide to remain friends, rather than parting ways, as they originally intended. Upon learning that Sonic's childhood friend Amy, is still alive, they run off to look for her, and continue their journey to retrieve the rest of the Emeralds. Meanwhile in jail, Robotnik notices a journal underneath his mattress labeled 'project shadow' dun dun dunnn..

end credits

[Mist]

Er, the "cancelled cartoon from 1993" in question lasted two seasons of 13 episodes on ABC for a total of 26 episodes.

Who or whatever "CJFilmz" is, he, she, or they were clearly biased in their view of the show (the "Star Wars" comparisons are completely unfair, IMHO). I think they need to do more research...

I have plenty of research in SatAM. As a kid, I really enjoyed the series, but now that I am older, I am noticing many similarities to Star Wars, and the character of Sally and her whole 'Kingdom of Acorns' backstory always irritated me, even when I was a fan of the show.

SatAM is very much like Star Wars. Robotnik is a cold, sinister guy who doesnt talk much, and has an army of robotic soldiers at his disposal. (Stormtroopers?) has a skinny little man following his orders, and I seem to recall Darth Vader ordering around a skinny man in some of the Star Wars films.

In the 2nd or 3rd episode of SatAM, there was a wizard who took Sonic's speed. This Wizard talks EXACTLY like Yoda. ("Took your speed, I did!" is an actual quote)

Nicole acts as an R2-D2, always helping them hack into something or open a door.

[HellCat]

I don't think you need to give Sonic some legendary backstory. There is that aspect to the character (in games, he comes up in quite a few prophecies) but the character himself isn't really about that. To make a far flung comparison, he's kind of like the title character of Doctor Who- death and danger face him where ever he goes and he's too much of a thrill seeker and nice guy to not to do something about it.
Personally, I certainly have no interest in the Kingdom of Acorn or legions of Echidnas. In my mind, Sonic Adventure gave us a perfect explanation for why Knuckles is the last of their kind and it works better that way. American fans say the games have too many characters whilst ignoring that same folly of their own continuity. Yeah, you could do without quite a few of the game characters. But recent additions like Blaze and Marine have worked well.

[tb4000]

The first game in the series basically viewed Sonic as a carefree resident of Mobius who decided to take it upon himself to rebel against Eggman's tyranny. That's basically what the character is.

[Super Sonic]

Ah, so Rich is the one talking in the video (I haven't seen the videos, but I'm aware of who he is). He's had quite a history with this Sonic movie. I've seen some character bios, and it sounded very good but your results may vary, because of the fact that he's such a huge fan of SatAM and decided to incorporate elements of it's story into his script.

[garfield15]

In responde to what Rich said about 'Sonic facing his demons'

I think if it done in a subtle way, that might be interesting.
Sonic has never had a backstory, and for his film debut, some type of origin will have to be told.

I personally, have had an idea in my head for how a Sonic film would go. I dont have any connections in the industry or anything, but anyway, these are just my thoughts.. It's kind of flawed, and needs a little work, but here you go..

The movie would start with a narration about how Sonic was orphaned and raised by an elderly echinda named Athair, who saw 'great things' in him. In the present, Sonic would basically be a carefree guy who runs around South Island everyday. One afternoon, he stumbles upon a dilapidated house, where he eats junk food, watches TV, and rummages around, he notices
a small pamphlet about 'The Chaos Emerald now on display at Station Square museum' ignoring it, he keeps rummaging, and finds a nice pair of sneakers and gloves. Athair walks in and tells Sonic to get out. He warns Sonic of a race called 'humans' who only care about themselves, a people motivated by greed. This only makes Sonic curious.

One night, while Sonic is laying under the stars, asleep, he dreams of his past, and about a childhood friend of his, a pink hedgehog girl. Suddenly, a set of explosions go off across the island. Sonic looks for Athair. Athair tells Sonic to leave and to find a boy named Miles Prower on a nearby island. Sonic is confused and tries to get Athair to come with him, but he wont budge.

Sonic then escapes, and wakes up the next day on the shore of a nearby island. There, he searches for Miles Prower, who has a Chaos Emerald, which Athair wants Sonic to keep from getting into the wrong hands. Robotnik, thinking the Emerald was on South Island, learns of his mistake, and heads for WestSide Island, where he meets Sonic for the first time. After avoiding Robotnik's machines, Sonic & Tails form a friendship and go on a journey to recover the 7 Emeralds before Robotnik can get his hands on them. The film ends with a giant battle in Station Square. After defeating Rootnik, Sonic & Tails decide to remain friends, rather than parting ways, as they originally intended. Upon learning that Sonic's childhood friend Amy, is still alive, they run off to look for her, and continue their journey to retrieve the rest of the Emeralds. Meanwhile in jail, Robotnik notices a journal underneath his mattress labeled 'project shadow' dun dun dunnn..

end credits

That actually sounds pretty interesting. I wouldn't mind checking out something like that in an OVA or something

[veemonjosh]

Let Archie handle the SatAM characters and leave them out of everything else

For a movie, either set it in a continuity close to the games or, if we can't do that, set it in the Sonic X universe (without, you know, Chris).

[SAMaine]

SEGA of Japan has been a roadblock keeping many filmmakers from making a Sonic the Hedgehog feature.

Ken Penders had several meetings with SEGA from 2000 to 2003 about making a Sonic feature. These never worked out, and I personally, am glad for that. People need to stop trying to revive a cancelled cartoon from 1993 that only lasted for 22 episodes. It's obscure and only appeals to a small internet following, Not to mention the storyline is basically just Star Wars with talking animals (There's even a Wizard which talks EXACTLY like Yoda in the 3rd episode. Also, Robotnik is basically Vader, Sally is Leia) and it doesnt even follow the storyline of the videogames.

Dreamworks animation was set to make a Knuckles the Echinda feature but that never worked out.

When it all comes down to it, you can have all the agents you want to help sell the thing, all the animation studios ready to do the hard labor, and all the movie companies ready to cough out the dough to fianace the thing, but if you do not have SEGA of Japan's approval, it's not going to happen.

And for that, I am glad. Let's face it. Hollywood would've just turned a Sonic movie into something like "Kung fu Panda" (I hear its a good movie, but definitely not the style for a Sonic film) "Space Chimps" or a live-action/CGI combo like Underdog. OR a SatAM inspired mess.

I think the only way we will see a quality Sonic film is if one day, a Sonic fan who grew up with the franchise approaches SEGA of Japan with a story that caters to the videogame universe, and has a writing staff that doesn't try to 'dumb it down' for a kiddie audience (I realize Sonic is for kids, but most studios today if they made a Sonic film, would fill it with fart jokes, tone down the 'action' sequences and try to make them silly, and fill the soundtrack with songs from the Jonas Brothers)

This won't happen... Not when the Archie Sonic Comic is currently better made than the Sega Sonic Games. Remember the Archie Comic is still based on SatAM, despite how hard Sega tried to get it to fit. I've had experience with Sonic, and even Bioware's Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood has some hints of SatAM in it. The Western filmakers think SatAM would sell more than the current Sega Continuity.

[Aldrius]

Sonic has never had a backstory

Sonic has never needed a backstory. It goes completely against his character, and it's one of the many things that separates him from Shadow (who has a very extensive backstory).

Eh, for a movie I think games continuity would probably be better, with some more original inventions to expand upon what's already there.


I've had experience with Sonic, and even Bioware's Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood has some hints of SatAM in it.

There's some visual things that are very SATAM (Swat bots?), but other than that it sounds like it fits in games continuity to me.

[HellCat]

What exactly is the US comic supposed to be doing that's so amazing? Because to be completley honest, I can believe the bulk of its sales comes from nostalgic furries.
I think the name of the lead villain is a pretty good measuring stick for how people feel about the issue. Love the name Robotnik? Then you're probably a comic/cartoon fan. Have no problem with Eggman? Then you're probably a game fan.

For Sonic having a backstory- as said, he doesn't really need one. Sonic was devised as this 'cool on the surface' character to get people to play the first game. There were some very loose official backstories and I think the best out of all of them is that Sonic was an orphan raised by the Green Hill Zone animals, who taught him most of his trademark abilities. It's a simple little backstory that adds a bit more to his first adventure and doesn't need some stupid monarchy or some nonsense about the planet being Earth in the future where animals have evolved.

[GWOtaku]

What exactly is the US comic supposed to be doing that's so amazing? Because to be completley honest, I can believe the bulk of its sales comes from nostalgic furries.
I think the name of the lead villain is a pretty good measuring stick for how people feel about the issue. Love the name Robotnik? Then you're probably a comic/cartoon fan. Have no problem with Eggman? Then you're probably a game fan.

For Sonic having a backstory- as said, he doesn't really need one. Sonic was devised as this 'cool on the surface' character to get people to play the first game. There were some very loose official backstories and I think the best out of all of them is that Sonic was an orphan raised by the Green Hill Zone animals, who taught him most of his trademark abilities. It's a simple little backstory that adds a bit more to his first adventure and doesn't need some stupid monarchy or some nonsense about the planet being Earth in the future where animals have evolved.

......it was Earth all along?

Must resist Planet of the Apes jokes...

[HellCat]

......it was Earth all along?

Must resist Planet of the Apes jokes...

"I love you Doctor Eggman!"

[Mad Mod 49]

What exactly is the US comic supposed to be doing that's so amazing? Because to be completley honest, I can believe the bulk of its sales comes from nostalgic furries.

Generilazations are bad.

Generilazations concerning furries is even worse.

Look, I don't think the SatAM/comics thing is perfect either, but SAMaine is correct when saying that the comics are better than the current run of games. I'm still having a hard time getting over the utter failure of Sonic 360.

[HellCat]

Generilazations are bad.

Generilazations concerning furries is even worse.

Look, I don't think the SatAM/comics thing is perfect either, but SAMaine is correct when saying that the comics are better than the current run of games. I'm still having a hard time getting over the utter failure of Sonic 360.

So hang on, you're going to tell my opinion is wrong and then present your own opinion as fact?

I said I can believe the US comic is propped up mostly by furries. I didn't say they were its entire audience but the majority of its readers are. Let me tell you, there's a reason such fans keep screaming for more Sally.

[Mad Mod 49]

So hang on, you're going to tell my opinion is wrong and then present your own opinion as fact?

I didn't say your opinion is wrong, I said generalizing is wrong. I agree with some points in your opinion, there are alot of stuff in SatAM that never made any sense to me. But generalizing the majority of people who enjoy it as furries isn't very rational, particularly since the games have alot of *ahem* furrie-fodder themselves. :sweat:

[HellCat]

I didn't say your opinion is wrong, I said generalizing is wrong. I agree with some points in your opinion, there are alot of stuff in SatAM that never made any sense to me. But generalizing the majority of people who enjoy it as furries isn't very rational, particularly since the games have alot of *ahem* furrie-fodder themselves. :sweat:

It's rational when you look at the amount and kind of fan art and the fact should you discuss this anywhere, SOMEONE will at some point in the discussion will demand the return of 'a sexier Princess Sally'.
I'm not out on some crusade against furries. But when it comes to this, the fandom's chock full of them and most aren't the sharpest tools in the shed. I'll stop thinking this when they stop doing it. The fact that the guy behind these videos could dilude himself so much is prime evidence of what I'm referring to.

[Mad Mod 49]

But when it comes to this, the fandom's chock full of them and most aren't the sharpest tools in the shed.


Brother, I know how you feel there. Nearly all fandoms I've been too have the same kind of problem; not with furries, but other kinds of weird fetishes and such.



The fact that the guy behind these videos could dilude himself so much is prime evidence of what I'm referring to.


Agreed there too. That guy's a loser and I can't bring myself to buy into anything that he's saying about this movie project. The fact that we literatelly only have his word as "evidence" on the matter says something. :raven:

[Racattack!Force]

'a sexier Princess Sally'
Eh, I like Amy more. :yawn:

[Cactusjack1999]

Looking at this schmuck's website... He's never really directed a movie, he's never really written a movie.

This is just some fanboy (moaning) because SEGA turned him down on a fan script.

[Mist]

I think you guys are being a bit too harsh.

I personally disagree with the idea of putting SatAM into a feature film adaptation of the Sonic series, but from what I saw of his video, it seemed nicely done, and it must've taken him a lot of hard work and perserverance to get an agent, a studio willing to animate the project, and some real connections in order to get into contact with the higher-ups at SEGA.

It was a good attempt, and for that, I applaud him.

Letr's just hope that if anyone does get the go-ahead to do a Sonhic picture, that it ties more closely to Sonic's (non-sucky) games, and while I dont want a SatAM storyline, it should have some (brief or hidden) cameos to appeal to every type of Sonic fan.

[Mist]

That actually sounds pretty interesting. I wouldn't mind checking out something like that in an OVA or something

Thank you, this is all merely hypothetical, but its just the way I personally enivision a Sonic the Hedgehog film. I think it would be awesome if Liam Neeson voiced Athair the Echinda. Athair would act as a Master Splinter to him in a way.

I dont want to venture into 'furry' terroritory, but I want to create a reason as to why Sonic & his friends can talk, so I have an idea in mind that Chaos Emeralds have mutated/evolved animals, giving them the ability to walk and talk, and there is a 'underground' in Station Square compromised of human-like animals. That ties into Rouge the Bat's introduction in the second film, as a jewel thief. She's the first animal/human to be spotted by the general human public. (well besides Sonic in the first film. There'd be a scene like in Sonic X where hes dodging Police Cars)

[Cactusjack1999]

CjFilmz, you say


it must've taken him a lot of hard work and perserverance to get an agent, a studio willing to animate the project, and some real connections in order to get into contact with the higher-ups at SEGA.

Unless I see a press release, or any form of letter from SEGA. I'm still gonna end up calling Bull on this cause there's no proof that this occured.

This guy could just be making it up as he goes along just so he can feel good about himself.

And if someone gives me that retarded NDA excuse, congratulations you've just strengthened my arguement that this is fake that much more.

[J.E.Smith]

Yeah, just ignore this whole thing. Rich(aka Sonmanic) is nothing more than a fanboy.

However, there IS a professional animator named Matt Sullivan who's going to be making a new pitch for a SatAM revival to DiC and Sega. Matt's resume's too long to list, but he's worked on shows such as Family Guy(And the Clevland spinoff), The Simpsons, Billy & Mandy and many others. Even if nothing comes of it at least he's more credible than Rich is.

[PC!]

Here's the link in question, (http://www.satamsonic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=575&st=0&sk=t&sd=a) for those interested.

Personally, I don't see anything ever coming of it, but hey, it's still kind of neat that he's trying.

[sonmanic]

Geez, registering on this site was a bit of a project :sweat: I sincerely apologize for my belated entrance since I notice the site had technical issues and I just now received my confirmation email after waiting 3 weeks. So let’s get into the meat and potatoes of this topic. Its certainly been an eventful month for me, that’s for sure. I realize the videos that were posted on youtube might have stirred up some controversy. However, for those who are drowning in a sea of confusion or have their facts misconstrued, I'm hear to clear the air. First off, I’m very overwhelmed from the comments I’ve received; both positive and negative. I didn’t realize how quickly this video would spread and its amazing how so many people are equally divided on the matter. Then again, the reasoning is of course feasible. I will admit, people have been dicked around in regards to a Sonic cartoon show or a Sonic movie. So after combing through the net reading various message boards related to the recent news, I felt compelled to post here and it at least tell you my side of the story.

First off let me give you some background on my expertise. For nearly a decade Ive ran a professional design firm called RK Dezignz and specialize in graphic design and video production. I primarily work with local indie rock bands in the San Francisco Bay Area such as Hanalei, Push to Talk, Scissors for Lefty, and Audrey Sessions. I design concert flyers, posters, CD art, music videos and anything that assists with the bands marketing. Theres a couple questions here in this thread that really fuled the tension so I will answer them to the best of my ability. YES, you can classify me as a Sonic fanboy. I loved everything that encompassed the franchise during its infancy. Games, Comics, and Cartoons. Sonic obsession aside, Im also an aspiring writer and director that wanted to branch off from the music scene and pursue feature films and assumed that Sonic would get my foot in the door. Little did I know, I was right by exceeding my own expectations. It all began in winter 2005 when I channeled the motivation to embark on a project that I only dreamt about it. A Sonic feature film. Long story short, YES, I was involved with a production of the official Hollywood based Sonic film from 2006 - 2008 when Sega of Japan/America sent me their letter of consent to procede with the project in Sept 2006:


Approval from Sega in Sept 2006

----- Original Message -----
From: robert.leffler@segaamerica.com (robert.leffler@segaamerica.com)
To: richk@rkdezignz.com
Sent: Friday, Sept 15, 2006 3:12 PM
Subject: RE: Sonic Movie

Hey Rich!

I just returned from Japan and we did discuss the Sonic movie, either for theatrical release or straight to DVD. Sega Japan is considering several options on how to develop a Sonic movie or new TV show and it's a decision that will not be made quickly. They do feel that a new project should be developed in the West as Sonic is considered a Western property; it's never been that popular in Japan. However, they have placed your idea in the pre-green lit stage until you can submit the details regarding your place in this project.

In order for them to seriously consider a proposal for Sonic, they will need information on you and your group, what experience or background you have, what approach you would take (2-D vs 3-D, storyline, etc.), financials on the production, what financing you have, production timeline, possible voice talent, and more importantly who would do the production.

I realize that's a lot to put together, but they tend to ask for a lot of information and take a long time to make a decision. Good luck!

Regards,

Robert Leffler
Licensing and Trademark
SEGA of America
(415) 701-3833


The studios that were on board consisted of the combined efforts of DiC Entertainment and Universal Pictures. The film was approved last winter, but once everything was relayed to Sega of Japan, they pulled the plug on the entire production and gave us this ridiculous excuse of being pre-contracted with a third party company which Ill provide below.


December 2007

----- Original Message -----
From: Takeuchi,Yukari,Character Prod,SOJ (TakeuchiY2@soj.sega.co.jp)
To: richk@rkdezignz.com (richk@rkdezignz.com)
Cc: Sasaki,Emi,Character Prod,SOJ (SasakiE@soj.sega.co.jp) ; Seno,Hiroshi,Character Prod,SOJ (SenoH@soj.sega.co.jp) ; Kodama,Miwa,Character Prod,SOJ (KodamaM2@soj.sega.co.jp)
Sent: Monday, December 17, 2007 1:31 AM
Subject: Treatment: Sonic the Hedgehog

Dear Mr. Richard Kuta

Your letter dated December 7, 2007 together with the treatment entitled "Sonic the Hedgehog: the Secret of the Chaos Emeralds" has been forwarded to our department, as we, Character Business and Licensing Department, handle licensing of the film rights based on our properites.

I regret to inform you that we are already in talks with a third party for a production of the Sonic feature. We often receive an interesting offer for the Sonic movies whether directly or through Sega of America. As we are bound by the confidentiality clause in the agreement, we cannot reveal the name of our partner at this point.

In any event, we will return your treatment via air courier.

Thank you for your attention and understanding, and we wish you a good luck with a future project.

Best regards,

Yukari Takeuchi
Character Business and Licensing
SEGA


A response from May 2008 forwarded to my agent


----- Original Message -----
From: Takeuchi,Yukari,Character Prod,SOJ (TakeuchiY2@soj.sega.co.jp)
To: [AGENTS EMAIL EDITED]
Cc: Richard Kuta (Rich641028@hotmail.com)
Sent: Tuesday, May 06, 2008 11:38 PM
Subject: RE: SONIC THE HEDGEHOG



Dear Mr. Giagni,


Thank you for your mail. I believe the project you are referring to is the same one as Mr. Richard Kuta told me back in December 2007. At that time, I clearly explained him the status of the Sonic feature project. I am very surprised to receive your mail after almost 6 months.


Please note that the status remains the same as I told Mr. Kuta in December. I am sorry to inform you that we can do nothing for you.


Thank you again for your attention and understanding.


Best regards,


Yukari Takeuchi
SEGA


The basic goal of my youtube documentry is to coerce Sega of Japan (not America) into revealing their third party company and finally give a public statement about the movie they're working on. I did not pour 3 years of my life to play anyone for fools, this was NEVER a hoax. Sonic is a passion of mine and an endearing childhood icon of my youth and my efforts were were well executed till Sega of Japan terminated the project. If you require solid proof and evidence of this films existence or even my film's existence, please contact DiC Entertainment or Universal Pictures. I personally pitched the film in October 2007 and it received immediate approval after the presentation.

Now about the movie. Just to clarify, it wasn’t solely based on the SatAM cartoon or Comics. It borrowed elements that encompassed the entire Sonic franchise by telling an origin story that would follow into a trilogy saga. This would appease the fan base instead of alienating them by focusing on one aspect of the franchise. The story incorporated characters, power ups, and landscapes from the cartoons, comics, and yes, the video games. Compromise was the key word here and I left no stone unturned which is why initially Sega approved the film 2 years ago. It was only recently when financing was secured and the studios solidified their commitment that Sega of Japan pulled the plug by saying they had already have a third party studio on board. Whoever they are, Id like to know how exactly they’re more credible than a big budget Hollywood studio. FYI, it’s possible that I might turn my failed project into an animated fan film so keep a look out for that. But yeah, the entire ordeal is tragic if not depressing after all the expenses and time that I personally invested.

Upon request, I will gladly supply more evidence such as this: http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/9061/studiopassesdj1.jpg
No, I didnt forget to remove the contact info since Im urging people to contact these studios so my words are validated. Same applies with Sega of Japan. You wouldnt believe the amount of hate mails and derogatory suggestions I was bombarded with. All this due to the idea of this being a hoax which is a solid FACT. People have actually gone through great lengths to even create abusive websites about me by posting embaressing photos of me from my college days. Its utterally ridiculous Ill say it. Sonic fans are batshit insane and will do everything in their power to hurt someone to further their agenda. Most of it either stems from confussion or envy, but the point is that the fanbase has some crazies that need to be sifted out, but thats another topic. Anyway, I have an assortment of emails dating from 2005-2008, photos, and other materials. Im a open book guys, just ask and Ill deliver. So what it all boils down to is that Sega IS producing a Sonic movie and its up to anyone to investigate it further. Hell, Im inviting you to.

In addition, I do want to shine light on another Sonic related project that has surfaced. Though my efforts have failed, the aforementioned Matt Sullivan aka AnimatorX is there to pick up the broken pieces that Sega shattered and start a new. I urge you all to support AnimatorX, since he honestly has a more worthy track record than I do (Simpsons and Famly Guy nuff said). Perhaps his resume will be his golden ticket, but if not, lets see how this pans out. Im very confident in his goal and Ill be cheering him on from the sidelines wishing him luck. Anyway, I hope this untangles the web of frustration. If not, you can visit my FAQ that details my efforts from concept to pre-production at http://www.rkdezignz.com/FAQ.htm (http://www.rkdezignz.com/FAQ.htm)

In closing, thank You for at least giving me this opportunity to expound on the true details that transpired and if you have questions or anything, please forward them to richk@rkdezignz.com (richk@rkdezignz.com) Later toonsters!

[DarthGonzo]

The basic goal of my youtube documentry is to coerce Sega of Japan (not America) into revealing their third party company and finally give a public statement about the movie they're working on.

Good luck with that. I think your going to need it.

[sonmanic]

Read it and weep naysayers. Someone finally took my advice and contacted Universal Pictures and got confirmation! Of all people, it was the person that cwas the admin of this Sonic site and who had this strong hatred towards me for years about my "delussions." Not only that, she was the creator of the ED page. Talk about irony. Anyway, she laments her actions and confirms that YES, I did pitch a film to Hollywood and Sega IS working on a movie of thier own.
http://www.satamsonic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=648&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=20


Looks like an apology is in order here guys 8)

[Sonic_Eclipse]

Even if it was true, your movie sounds like it had disaster written all over it. The title was lame itself; "Sonic the Hedgehog: The Secret of The Chaos Emeralds", please.

I look foward to hearing what happens to Matt's project or whatever Sega-Japan is working on.

[Mad Mod 49]

Regardless of truth or not, I want one question answered:

Where the hell was Antione in your pitch? He wasn't listed as a character on that site of yours! What gives? :confused:

[Harlan_Phoenix]

Yeah, I can't say I was too excited about your pitch either. Too much SatAM bias when a new continuity would be much more accessible.

[Nel]

Read it and weep naysayers. Someone finally took my advice and contacted Universal Pictures and got confirmation! Of all people, it was the person that cwas the admin of this Sonic site and who had this strong hatred towards me for years about my "delussions." Not only that, she was the creator of the ED page. Talk about irony. Anyway, she laments her actions and confirms that YES, I did pitch a film to Hollywood and Sega IS working on a movie of thier own.
http://www.satamsonic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=648&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=20


Looks like an apology is in order here guys 8)

Having finally gotten around to reading about everything you pulled on FUS, I fail to see why anyone should have to apologise to you for anything on this matter.

Though this other attempt by Matt Sulivan has piqued my interest.

[MonkeyFunk]

http://www.satamsonic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=648&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=20

That forum is scary.


In regards to the clothes: Sally will have to be full clothed this time around. Kids of today will not understand the symbolism behind it and even if they did they and even a good deal of the people living at that time would associate it with the feminist zealotry of the 90's. And if that wasn't true, then why else did the independent woman trend die out in the first place?

Sally's nudity was a part of the "I can be like the boys" motif going on back then. She was perhaps the only girl who was not fully clothed like the male characters (ok there was dulcy but she couldn't do that because she was a dragon). Sally's nudity indirectly messaged viewers in on the fact she was the lead female. Why else do you think it is, that all Sally wore was a vest that did not cover anything even after the decree was made to give her more clothes because it was deemed too inappropriate for her to not be wearing anything?

:confused:

[HellCat]

Never try and make sense of Sally Acorn fans. It will destroy your mind.

[MonkeyFunk]

Especially when they're trying to second-guess what the non-existent "soccer moms" will say about the film:


I think it's not US we should worry about. It's the soccer moms who whine about things like Sally not wearing clothes or Ixis Naugus' magic is of the devil. That or "Pokemon is satanic and Jinx portrays a coon stereotype and not a ganguro/mamba Japanese subculture!"

*sigh*

[The Huntsman]

Never try and make sense of Sally Acorn fans. It will destroy your mind.
Hey, we’re not all crazy. It’s possible to believe that she’s a great character without losing your soul.

[Movie06]

Personally, if a Sonic movie were to be done, I think it's best to create a new continuity but that's just me.

[sonmanic]

I look foward to hearing what happens to Matt's project or whatever Sega-Japan is working on.

I concur. Now that closure has finally been put on the movie subject, lets focus on the current project happening. Matt's SatAM Revival! FYI, the videos from youtube have been removed since they serve no purpose anymore due to the recent news.

[Movie06]

I concur. Now that closure has finally been put on the movie subject, lets focus on the current project happening. Matt's SatAM Revival!

No offense but I don't think it's wise to make a continuation film of SatAM to be honest. I mean, what's the point? The show is done and over with, don't abuse it.

[Super Sonic]

Read it and weep naysayers. Someone finally took my advice and contacted Universal Pictures and got confirmation! Of all people, it was the person that cwas the admin of this Sonic site and who had this strong hatred towards me for years about my "delussions." Not only that, she was the creator of the ED page. Talk about irony. Anyway, she laments her actions and confirms that YES, I did pitch a film to Hollywood and Sega IS working on a movie of thier own.
http://www.satamsonic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=648&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&start=20


Looks like an apology is in order here guys 8)

Wow, you never change...And no, she couldn't have made the article, because it even briefly mocks her and says that you and her were involved in some sort of affair or something. The people on that board have much reason to dislike you after all you've done. And just because she said she heard the film exists doesn't mean it's real.

Anyway, I seriously don't see how one movie that's pretty much some nerd's fanfic come to life is gonna make Sonic games more fun, or reunite the fanbase. Unless I'm mistaken, SEGA is very strict about things involving their continuity with Sonic, so you just showing up with your own ideas of how it all works isn't a good idea.

Of course, with you being you, it's clear you're not going to take my advice and you'll continue to believe that you're entitled to make a Sonic movie. :shrug:

[veemonjosh]

This guy is the new Timbox McKenzie.

Really, I'm 99.99% sure this'll never work, for several reasons:

1. I've never even HEARD of you before this topic, and I'm certain Sega doesn't want a complete nobody doing a movie about their world-famous mascot.

2. You're trying to seriously make a fanfic out of an old 26-episode Saturday morning cartoon from nearly 15 years ago into a full-fledged movie. Now, it was a bit less crazy when Ken Penders pitched that movie based off of the Archie comics, since that's still out there in the public eye, but you haven't made one mention of anything EXCEPT the SatAM cartoon.

3. Continuing from my above point, even considering that SatAM was a Sonic continuity, Sega would NOT want a movie based off of anything except either the video game universe or, to a lesser extent (but still possible), Sonic X. Asking to make a SatAM movie at this point is like trying to make a Zelda movie based off of the old DiC cartoon (ex. Joe Cracker); it doesn't fit the image Sega is trying to present of Sonic.

4. Like Super Sonic said, nothing about a fanfic movie will make the games better or reunite the fanbase. The former is for Sega to decide on their own and the latter is already a moot point, since you're clearly leaving out Antoine.

I could go on, but I think I've made my point.

[Mad Mod 49]

The former is for Sega to decide on their own and the latter is already a moot point, since you're clearly leaving out Antoine.


Yes, a question still unanswered. :sad: It makes even less sense that Bunny Rabbot is in the film since she:
A. Debuted after Antione did storyline-wise.
and B. Is love interest to-guess who?-Antione!

I know Antione annoys some people, but he develops past his annoying phase and is a valuable Freedom Fighter. If any so-called-movie left him out, yet included the now past his prime Shadow, it would not be for me.

[HellCat]

And of course you have the European fans, who could just as easily insist on Porker Lewis, Johnny Lightfoot, the Kintobor computer and Bob Beaky being present.

[ozymandias]

I heard weird things about him on encyclopedia dramatica though I do know that site is incredibly messed up so don't get mad at me

[Harlan_Phoenix]

I heard weird things about him on encyclopedia dramatica though I do know that site is incredibly messed up so don't get mad at me

That site, and that article, is/are pure awesome.

[The Huntsman]

That site, and that article, is/are pure awesome.
No, it isn’t. That site attacks a lot of innocent people. I apologize for this blatant digression, but I can’t stand it when people defend Encyclopedia Dramatica; I say this as somebody who has been slandered by that website.

[The Nameless]

No, it isn’t. That site attacks a lot of innocent people. I apologize for this blatant digression, but I can’t stand it when people defend Encyclopedia Dramatica; I say this as somebody who has been slandered by that website.

ED is, in its purest form, a site where bored-out-of-their mind teenagers go to get some kind of "e-revenge" on people who ticked them off on the Internet. Basically, they act as if the Internet is of higher priority than reality. If you want actual humor, read Uncyclopedia.

But I'm going to shut up about ED now. And I agree with veemonjosh that this guy is the next Timbox.

[J'onn J'onzz]

ED is, in its purest form, a site where bored-out-of-their mind teenagers go to get some kind of "e-revenge" on people who ticked them off on the Internet. Basically, they act as if the Internet is of higher priority than reality. If you want actual humor, read Uncyclopedia.

But I'm going to shut up about ED now. And I agree with veemonjosh that this guy is the next Timbox.
I've always been under the impression that Encyclopedia Dramatica was made to make fun of people who think that the internet is a higher priority than reality. Most of the people they mock are random furries who take themselves too seriously.

That said I agree that Uncyclopedia is probably better and that this guy is hilarious and the new Timbox.

[Ed Liu]

If all that's happening here is pointing and laughing at another forum member, then any useful purpose this thread might have served is now gone.

Thread closed.

-- Ed