We have completed our sizzle reel and created posters using the actual characters from each episode. Collaborator Studios, with Jacob and Arnold Pander (The Pander Brothers), did an absolute, amazing job with the reel along with Temple Gate Film’s composer, Rick Balentine, who created the powerful and emotional music score. To view the sizzle reel, please click the YouTube video on the sidebar of this website!
See a short synopsis for each episode below.
The Moon Drake production team believes so deeply in this wonderful anime production. The purposeful and vibrant energy it embodies, gathers us together across the world. It loves us, holds us, teaches us, encourages us to give of ourselves, helps us remember our normal goodness and reminds us that we are the light!
Yes, we are the light of the world, and we are reverently and wonderfully made! That is why we are here in this time! We are important and we can be brave!
Children will love these powerful and adventurous stories. They will learn that THEY are the hope for change. They will learn that THEY can make a difference right now!
We are LOVE. We are ONE. Nothing else is relevant.
Our FINAL CONTINENT POSTER, with episodes from Seasons 1 & 2, presents stories from the N. American Continent. We focus on the rich heritage, spirituality and respect for the earth by Native Americans and First Nation Peoples. I was humbled and blessed to write both of these stories that depict the Indigenous people of the continent where I live.
Episode 1.1, Way & Two Wolves, is from the Cherokee Nation. Waya is learning to be a warrior of his people, but he is troubled, rebellious and arrogant. He follows the wrong friends in his life and does not think of the consequences. But then, Waya is faced with a life-changing decision to protect his twin sister and an endangered white wolf pup – or go with his friend. In the end, his grandfather’s spirit comes to him with a message… it is time for him to make a choice.
Episode 2.1, Namid & Star Dancing, the Metis Nation. Ami is tragically left an orphan and must live in an unfamiliar place with strangers, her Metis family in Canada. But her journey through darkness turns into a brilliant light when she meets her Indigenous great-grandmother. The elder teaches her about her People and assures Ami she is stronger than she thinks, for everything on her path has meaning no matter how joyful or how hard it is.
I hope you have enjoyed this journey through the Moon Drake Continents for Season 1 & 2! We believe the stories are exquisite and powerful because they come from a heartfelt mission – indeed, the people involved in this project believe the world is destined to be a better place if we do our part.
WE LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK!
Jane
Our fifth poster, with episodes from Seasons 1 & 2, presents stories from the African Continent. It was my great joy to research and explore this continent with Martin Nuza, an incredible and experienced storyteller. We found this part of the world diverse and captivating, filled with intriguing wildlife, exquisite landscapes, spiritual energy, ancient history and unique cultures.
Episode 1.2, Lesadi & Her Star, is set in Kenya. There’s a reason this is the first Moon Drake episode… I wrote it in honor of my Kenyan daughter, Rose Atwenga, as I wanted to share her beautiful heritage! Our story unfolds with Lesadi, a Kenyan girl whose father has died. Her cruel uncle forces her to help him illegally poach lions and cheetah cubs. Through this adventure Lesadi is faced with a dangerous choice but discovers an unexpected hero.
Episode 2.2, Ali & His Dream, by Martin Nuza, takes place in Cairo, Egypt. Ali and his father are tour guides to the ancient pyramids. One night, the boy has a dream that takes him to another time and place and fills him with great joy. But when he awakens, something is missing from his life and his spirit, and he must do everything he can to find it.
All of our Moon Drake stories embrace human conflicts, the human spirit, and/or specific challenges impacting the earth. They show a diverse and glorious world, painting a picture of truth and love that gathers us all together as One. This is our quest.
IN THE GLOW OF THE MOON!
Jane
Our fourth poster, with episodes from Seasons 1 & 2, presents stories from the Australian Continent. It was such a blessing to focus on this continent with seasoned screenwriter and author, Martin Nuza. Each of these children’s stories depict dynamic characters and harrowing adventures through the intriguing cultures of Tasmania and New Zealand.
Episode 2.6, Koen & the Wandjina, by Martin Nuza, takes us on a spiritual journey into an ancient wilderness in Tasmania. It is a mystical adventure filled with Indigenous rituals and traditions. And in the end, when faced with great tragedy, our Earth Hero, Koen, must make a life-changing decision by rising to a place he’s never been before.
Episode 1.5, Ihaka’s Rainbow of the Sea. In this New Zealand episode, I address a debilitating, human conflict caused by an accident, which threatens Ihaka’s dream of one day helping the blue whale. But our discouraged character is ultimately lifted-up by his friends, and he reaches to a higher place. A place that changes everything and everyone.
We believe exploring the earth through the Moon Drake Series will open up a whole new world of understanding, compassion for diversity and acceptance of differences which is the key to true love and joy.
Please join us in this quest as we cannot achieve it without you.
MOON DRAKE WORLD!
Jane
Our third poster, with episodes from Seasons 1 & 2, presents stories from the European Continent from Bulgaria and Ireland.
Episode 2.3, Zhivka & Mitko, by the amazing Martin Nuza, tells the story of a young Bulgarian girl and her sidekick, Mitko the duck, as they stand up to a corruptive businessman who only cares about money… and causing soil and water contamination on their land. This is Zhivka’s quest, as an Earth Hero, to make things right.
Episode 1.3, by Irishman Mark Rickerby, Eamon & the Last Forest. This episode addresses deforestation and follows Eamon’s mission, to save the forest, to save friendships, and to save the elders in his life from losing something great… memories and love. Mark creatively weaves into the tale mystical beings from Irish folklore to make this story magnificent!
Every day we get a little closer to our quest – to share Moon Drake with the world! We believe these stories, shared simply and with dynamic characters, will help children see how important it is to love our earth and to love each other. Even children can make a huge difference when they realize their purpose.
We will continue our continent posters through the weekend! Happy 4th of July!
We are FLYING TO THE MOON!
Jane
Over the next 6 blogs we are going to share the continent posters for Moon Drake episodes from Seasons 1 & 2. Our first poster is for the Asian Continent. Both of these beautiful stories were written by my friend and extraordinary writing partner, Martin Manuel Nuza
Martin was a writing marvel as he shared his wisdom and creativity in these two fantastic tales. Episode 1.6, Chinua & Bayarmaa, is about illegal golden eagle hunting in Mongolia. Chinua is a huntress, and she is a powerful female lead character with determination!
Episode 2.5, Arundhati’s Voice, is equally powerful as Arundhati stands up for her dreams no matter what. Her strength causes some in her family to be upset, but in the end, everyone rises to a different place and embraces this young girl’s heart. This was a difficult story to tell, but Martin presents it in the gentlest, most compassionate way.
More to come!
WE ARE REACHING FOR THE MOON!
Moon Drake Anime Series brings the power of diversity into the spotlight. It presents real experiences and lessons that will impact lives and stir hearts toward goodness and light. Like these four stories that show us how Indigenous cultural wisdom empowers the environmental, human and spiritual challenges we all face.
Eamon & the Last Forest – European Continent, Ireland – addressing deforestation and human conflicts.
Waya & Two Wolves – N. American Continent, Cherokee Nation – addressing spiritual conflicts and endangered wildlife.
Arundhati’s Voice – Asian Continent, India – addressing human rights conflicts.
Koen & the Wandjina – Australian Continent, Tasmania – addressing spiritual conflicts and growth.
Children will love and embrace the characters, the animals and the simple answers through discovery and self-interaction in the storylines. We are so grateful for all who are helping to bring this beautiful production to the children of the world.
#pazatree #brokenhandproductions #martinnuza #templegatefilms #gswf
By Jane L. Fitzpatrick – Yesterday we crossed a HUGE milestone for the Moon Drake Series. And, we are OVER THE MOON to be able to share with you that we have written twelve scripts, completing all the episodes for Season One of this production!
This is quite an accomplishment to have finished these twelve powerful stories within a six-month time period. It is also amazing that we stayed on our timeline and brought forth extremely thought-provoking, diverse and meaningful stories for children. Yes, they will be entertained, but mostly they will learn how we are all connected to the earth and each other.
So today we share Season 1, Episode 5, “Ihaka’s Rainbow of the Sea” – which takes place in Moeraki, New Zealand. It focuses on a 12-year-old Maori boy, Ihaka, who loses his hand in a tragic bicycle accident. He also loses Hope and the Will to continue on toward his dreams of helping to save the blue whales. But his physical therapist and resourceful friends have other plans, determined to make sure Ihaka finds meaning again. What unfolds is an experience none of them ever expected and a realization that changes, not just Ihaka’s life, but all of their lives.
The next phase for Moon Drake is our dynamite sizzle reel that shows the essence of this international production so that we can present the project to investors. In our heart of hearts, we believe this series is going to reach kids everywhere, all around the world. Please take a look at this project, share the website with your friends who may want to learn more. We thank you for your inspiration, vision and support, and especially for your belief in the dynamic potential of this anime series, Moon Drake!
We are REACHING FOR THE MOON!
Today, we want to highlight and thank another three valuable and highly skilled consultants that bring added credibility and authenticity to their specific episodes. This is a vital part of the Moon Drake vision and purpose, because we are presenting stories that show the children of the world how diverse and glorious Humanity is and all of Creation.
We will never run out people and places to write about in the world. And as we strive to learn and understand each other, we believe the people of the earth will one day come together in an embrace of love. Though the Moon Drake stories are simply written, their truths and characters will open hearts.
Rose (Rosie) Atweng’a, Kenya, Africa – is the startup entrepreneur for a small business in Kenya. She is also involved with youth groups that advocate for self-development and integrity. “Having grown up in extreme poverty I relate so well to Lesadi. Sometimes people in need, can be tempted to get involved in anything to earn a living. So, it takes a strong will to say “no” to both criminal and immoral activities. Living in Nakuru, Kenya, and especially through the writer’s background of the story, the storyline is so vivid. In our youth groups we encourage young people to avoid illegal activities. Therefore, in our next meeting we will be reading this script and point out the vices and virtues the story teaches.“
Rose is the Cultural Consultant for Episode 1.1 – Lesadi & Her Star, (Kenya, Africa, African Continent) – “This story gives me a mix of emotions as the background of the story is very familiar. The cultural wisdom, ‘Be a woman of light’ encourages the spirit of integrity. I love the characters of Lesadi and Jabari showing us that vulnerability shouldn’t lead us to crime, we should be strong-willed. In essence, the poachers are the least in the chain of this crime because we have more powerful people who are in charge of poaching, who are also involved with the authorities. But the story gives us hope that all is not lost since there are still good people in authority who collaborate with Jabari to do the right thing. Though the exact location is not mentioned, it takes me to the area around Lake Elmenteita. The story is not only exciting but also educational and reflects on societal morals.” – Rose Atweng’a
Nadezhda (Nadia) Vulova Nuza, Bulgaria, Europe – is the perfect consultant for the Moon Drake story set in the beautiful country of Bulgaria, for it is her original homeland. In addition, Nadia understands what it takes to create a relevant story in film, as she has worked in the film industry for many years from Production Assistant to Production Manager. She has been a program host and even worked behind the camera. As well, Nadia has an eye for detail through her work as a still photographer. She went to the University of Gibraltar and is the wife of Moon Drake producer and writer, Martin Nuza.
Nadia is the Cultural Consultant for Episode 1.3 – Zhivka & Mitko (Bulgaria, European Continent) “It is my greatest pleasure to be the consultant for this episode because it has the backdrop of a Bulgarian village, a place dear to my heart, and follows the story of a young girl’s heroic struggle to fight an evil and corrupt system. It is her quest, for the sake of saving her mother and neighbors, to keep those she loves from a pending environmental catastrophe. This episode, as with all Moon Drake episodes, is truly a heart-warming story filled with inspiration and hope for a better planet.” – Nadezhda Vulova Nuza
Mark Rickerby, ancestors from Ireland, Europe – As a Moon Drake producer and writer with roots in Ireland, I could see no other person but my late father, John Sidney Rickerby, as the posthumous Cultural Consultant for this episode. He was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1933. After leaving Ireland in 1957 for Canada and later America, he founded the John S. Rickerby Company, which operated for over fifty years. He was interviewed on television and radio and contributed numerous articles about Ireland to the Los Angeles Times, the Belfast Telegraph, and other publications. However, his main claims to fame for those who knew him best were his singing voice and seemingly endless supply of jokes and stories. He passed away in 2014 at the age of 81, but many of his stories can be found in his memoir titled The Other Belfast – An Irish Youth. He was always an inspiration to me in many ways, but particularly singing and writing. Here’s part of a poem his influence inspired.
I was born and raised in the good ol’ U.S. of A.
But my heart also belongs to a place far away,
An enchanted isle of leprechauns and banshees,
Of shining green fields, craggy hills and bent trees.
Where ever-falling sunshowers light up the grass.
Their emerald beauty dazzles the eye as you pass.
The life’s work of John Rickerby is the Cultural Consultant for Episode 1.8 – Eamon & the Last Forest (Ireland, European Continent) “My father’s influence is present in this story in several ways. First, he always used to tell me stories about climbing Cave Hill, which looms over Belfast, and his love of the solitude and nature he found there. Secondly, during World War II, he was sent to the country to live with a relative, as many children were, to be safe from German bombing raids of the city. He spent most days exploring a forest near the cottage he lived in. And lastly, my father instilled a love of nature in me as a child, particularly forests, because he would often take my mom, brother and me to a cabin deep in the forest of Big Bear, California. Much of what Eamon discovers in the forest reflects my own childhood impressions.
“If he were alive today, I’m sure my dad would love this episode because of his deep connection to nature, which was especially strong when he was a child and escaped his sometimes-harsh reality in the alternate world of forests, and because he was a storyteller much like Eamon’s grandfather, always regaling anyone who would listen with wild tales. His imagination was every bit as fertile as Ireland’s ‘40 shades of green’.” – Mark Rickerby
We close this blog post with memories of John, for this Ireland episode will be dedicated to him. Here is his most popular Irish poem:
ULSTER
There are those who say that Ulster is a place of hate and pain,
But many who have left it would still go back again.
The strangers do not see behind the bombs and flames and smoke,
And fail to see the character of the kindly Ulster folk.
But we have memories of the days when we were young and gay,
Of carefree romps through Ormeau Park or over Cave Hill’s Bray.
The Saturdays at Windsor, the Sundays by the sea,
The bathing belles at Pickie, the sands at Donaghadee,
Our best suit pressed and ready and we were Plaza-bound,
But first a stop at Mooney’s and pints bought all around.
The Sunday morning papers, the bacon and dip bread,
Then a dander to the castle where all the scores are read.
Back to work on Monday, the weekend’s tales are told,
While the oldsters smile and chuckle as our youthful tales unfold.
A new girl in the office, she’s a quare wee bit o’ stuff.
Is she going strong, you wonder, as you act so big and tough.
Those were the days, there is no doubt, as my memory wanders back.
That is what we all recall, not the rifle’s crack.
Will it ever be the same, you ask. Will today’s kids ever know
The simple life we all enjoyed a long, long time ago?
Children's Anime Series 