From mars to the moon - a job post by Nayden Zhelev

About the job

Seeking Director, Producer, Storyboard Artist & Financier for High-Concept Animated Short

I am seeking a passionate and visionary team to bring my high-concept animated short film, FROM MARS TO THE MOON, to life. This project serves as the second episode following a first installment, FROM THE EARTH TO THE MOON.

Logline: A fugitive's escape from Martian slavery is doomed when his ship crash-lands back on the Moon.

Project Description: "FROM MARS TO THE MOON" is a 15-minute sci-fi conspiracy thriller that blends the visceral intrigue of Total Recall with the epic scope of Star Trek. The script is complete and features a tight, character-driven narrative with a powerful, unforgettable twist.

After sparking a successful slave revolt on Mars, a legendary fugitive's escape to Earth is thwarted by a critical system failure, stranding the rebels back on the Moon—the very place his legend began. This crash landing unveils a revelation that expands the conspiracy to an interplanetary scale.

This short is conceived as a proof-of-concept for a larger series and is targeted squarely at the major animation and genre film festival circuit.

I'm Looking For:

1. DIRECTOR I seek a director with a strong visual style and a passion for genre-bending storytelling (Sci-Fi/Thriller). You will be responsible for:

• Leading the creative team (including the Storyboard Artist).
• Translating the script's atmospheric tension and dramatic character moments into a compelling visual experience.

2. STORYBOARD ARTIST I'm looking for a talented storyboard artist to translate the script into a dynamic visual blueprint. Your role will involve:

• Establishing compelling shot composition, camera movement, and pacing.
• Experience with animated projects is a significant plus.

3. FINANCIER / PRODUCER We are seeking a financier or a producer with financing capabilities who believes in the commercial and festival potential of high-concept animated shorts. This is an opportunity to attach your name to a project with a strong, marketable hook. You will be involved in:

• Exploring grants, co-productions, and investor opportunities.  
• Product placement 
• Guiding the project through the production pipeline.

What We Offer:

• A dedicated producer (myself) committed to the project's completion.
• A project designed for the festival circuit with a clear path to attracting audience and industry attention.

Project Status:

• Genre: Animated Short, Sci-Fi, Conspiracy Thriller
• Lookbook/Mood Board: In Development
• Budget Top sheet ready 

How to Apply:

Please send a direct message here on Stage 32 with the following information.

• For Financiers/Producers: A brief overview of your experience and your interest in the project.

• For Directors & Storyboard Artists: A link to your portfolio/reel and a brief statement on why this concept resonates with you.

Let's build something incredible together. I look forward to connecting!

All positions will be paid once a producer is secured and funding is in place.    

Serious collaborators only. Thank you for your understanding!