Netflix’s Next Big Hit: Orion and the Dark
As we eagerly anticipate the release of “Orion and the Dark” on Netflix, it’s time to delve into this animated family-friendly feature that’s already creating waves. With a pedigree of creativity from the team behind “How to Train Your Dragon”, this film is poised to be the next big thing for animation enthusiasts and family audiences alike.
The Inspiration: Emma Yarlett’s Magical World
“Orion and the Dark” finds its roots in the imaginative world of Emma Yarlett, a UK-based author and illustrator. Her journey from Leicestershire to the picturesque town of Falmouth in Cornwall mirrors her creative path. Starting with “Sidney, Stella, and the Moon” in 2013, Yarlett’s career blossomed, leading to “Orion and the Dark” in 2014, a story that beautifully combines pastel shades and a heartwarming narrative.
The Heart of the Story: Overcoming Fears
The essence of “Orion and the Dark” lies in its touching narrative. As IMDb’s official synopsis reveals, it’s a tale of a young boy named Orion, grappling with his fears, especially the dark. The story takes a turn when The Dark, personified, takes Orion on a journey, teaching him that fear is often just a state of mind. This adaptation promises to stay true to the book, offering a blend of adventure and life lessons.
The Voices that Bring the Story to Life
A stellar voice cast brings this tale to life. Paul Walter Hauser lends his voice to The Dark, while Jacob Tremblay voices Orion. They are joined by talents like Werner Herzog, Olivia Colman, Nat Faxon, and Juliet Jelenic, each adding their unique flavor to this animated journey.
The Creative Powerhouse: DreamWorks Animation
Behind this promising feature is DreamWorks Animation, a name synonymous with blockbuster animated films. Known for hits like “Shrek”, “Antz”, and “Kung Fu Panda”, DreamWorks continues to push the boundaries of storytelling and animation.
The Visionary Director: Sean Charmatz
Helming “Orion and the Dark” is Sean Charmatz, with a screenplay by the acclaimed Charlie Kaufman. This combination of creative minds sets high expectations for the film’s narrative and visual storytelling.
DreamWorks and Netflix: A Dynamic Duo
Netflix’s collaboration with Universal’s animation studios, DreamWorks and Illumination, has been a game-changer. Since July 2021, this partnership has brought a plethora of animated films to Netflix, including “Kung Fu Panda 3”, “Turbo”, and “How to Train Your Dragon 2“, among others.
Mark Your Calendars: February 2nd, 2024
Get ready to stream “Orion and the Dark” globally on Netflix from February 2nd, 2024. This release, bypassing theaters, makes it easily accessible to a global audience, ensuring that Orion’s journey to conquer his fears can be experienced by all.
“Orion and the Dark” is not just a film; it’s a journey into overcoming fears and finding courage. With its enchanting story, impressive voice cast, and the creative might of DreamWorks Animation, this Netflix feature is set to be a memorable addition to the world of animated films.
