This December Warner Bros. is bringing Arthur Curry to theaters with the release of the underwater epic AQUAMAN. An action-packed adventure that spans the vast, visually breathtaking underwater world of the seven seas, Aquaman takes half-human, half-Atlantean Arthur Curry on the journey of his lifetime—one that will not only force him to face who he really is, but to discover if he is worthy of who he was born to be…a king.

There really is no superhero story quite like this, and no hero quite like Aquaman, with so much of the focus on the oceans, and so much of the action taking place underwater. Warner Bros. wants to embrace that unique aspect as they create content to introduce consumers to the film’s line of toys, so they’re turning to you, Tongalers, with a one-of-a-kind challenge: they want you to use the Aquaman toys to create a stop-motion animated video that brings the adventures of Aquaman to life – and gives audience the feeling that they’re underwater with Aquaman.

How? Well, that’s up to you. This project is all about the craft and execution. There’s no one way to do it, and it’s not at all mandatory that you truly film underwater - just that your video really has that distinctive look and feel. Creatively, the door is wide open to almost any kind of storytelling, and it’s not mandatory that the entire story takes place underwater. What’s more, you won’t be alone in this: we’re running another project to source a writer for this video, so you’ll work with them to develop the actual narrative and script.

Ready to dive in deep and defend Atlantis? Then check out more details below…

The goal of this project is to create an entertaining 3 minute stop-motion animated video that uses key Aquaman toys to captivate audiences with an original adventure that embraces the distinctive underwater visuals of Aquaman’s world. Your video should introduce audiences to the toys themselves, and drive sales for those toys in the run up to the holiday season, while simultaneously raising awareness for the movie and getting people to talk about Aquaman, Mera, and the awesome world of Atlantis. In this process, you’ll work with a writer sourced from this project to develop the story and script for your video.

NOTE: If you're a Filmmaker and also want to pitch on the Writing project, you can be considered for both projects.

Since you’re not being asked to pitch a narrative, what Warner Bros. is looking for in your Pitch is your ability to creatively execute dynamic stop-motion animated videos, and direct an engaging short that can captivate an audience for several minutes. If you have past work that reflects the underwater element, that’s great! But otherwise, your pitch should detail the way that you might handle that visual element - whatever the eventual story might be. Again, it’s not necessary that you actually shoot this video underwater, and not all of the Aquaman toys are rated for underwater play. What’s key here is finding a smart way to immerse audiences in the story and give them the sense that they’re underwater with Aquaman.

In terms of story, you should know that the film itself is an adventure, more like Indiana Jones than Batman v Superman, and while it is rated PG-13, Aquaman is more fun and family friendly. With that in mind, you should look to create something that’s going to appeal to a broader audience: the main focus is boys and girls aged 6 and up, but we want something that can excite superhero fans aged 13 and up, and those existing adult Aquaman fans and collectors out there. Humor’s totally fine too, and Warner Bros. isn’t against a more comical approach.

Thematically, Aquaman is a unique and relatable character with environments and themes that we don’t see explored very often, and Aquaman’s own story is about embracing your unique identity. Those are elements that we want to explore here, and you won’t be tied to film’s story, so you have a lot of creative freedom in how you work those in. Obviously, you shouldn’t stray too far from the characters themselves, but you’re not beholden to Aquaman canon. There’s also the potential for you to touch on the topic of the environment and conservation, since it’s a hallmark of Aquaman, and you might be able to weave in something about ocean pollution or access to clean water.

Female empowerment is a major element of the film too, and Mera presents an incredibly strong female character whose powers are actually stronger than Aquaman’s. Don’t sideline her in your storytelling. 

Here are the characters you should know:

• Aquaman/Arthur Curry – Half-man, half-Atlantean, this colossal warrior has a rightful claim to the throne of the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, but is a self-ascribed outcast in both worlds.  Raised by his lighthouse keeper father, Thomas, Arthur is the first-born son of Queen Atlanna.  His very existence is proof that the dwellers of the sea and the surface can co-exist, but it will be up to him one day to unite them.
• Mera – Daughter of King Nereus and princess of the undersea kingdom of Xebel, Mera has the gift of hydrokinesis, an extraordinarily powerful ability to manipulate water, making her a valuable ally for Aquaman.
• Orm/Ocean Master – Orm is the younger, half-brother of Arthur and the son of Queen Atlanna and King Atlan.  As the present King of Atlantis, Orm seeks to rule all of the undersea kingdoms and declare himself Ocean Master.  He detests his “half-breed” brother, and is determined to keep him from his rightful place on the throne.
• Black Manta – Once an unscrupulous, treasure-hunting pirate, David Kane transforms himself into the fearsome Black Manta in order to seek revenge against Aquaman, whom he blames for a tragic event in his past.  Armed with a sword and powerful optic sensors derived from an Atlantean weapon, Black Manta’s arsenal—along with his thirst for blood—could prove fatal for Aquaman.

Here are the toys you’ll have access to (with photo links):

• Mattel 6" Aquaman and shark accessory; highly articulated
• Mattel 6" Mera; highly articulated
• Mattel 6” Black Manta; highly articulated
• Mattel 6” Orm; highly articulated
• LEGO construction set; legs, arms, and head articulation 
• FUNKO Aquaman POP; no articulation
  • Justice League version pictured, but we’ll receive updated images mid August 
• FUNKO Mera POP; no articulation 
  • Justice League version pictured, but we’ll receive updated images mid August 
• Hallmark Ornaments + Itty Bitts; no articulation 

Rigging is fine, but you should avoid other face modifications. 

--Key Takeaways: 

• I need that Aquaman toy! We want to make everyone’s holiday gift lists. 
• Aquaman is a superhero unlike any others, and Atlantis is an underwater kingdom unlike any we’ve seen before. 

--Executional Considerations:

• You will not have access to any of the Aquaman film’s talent, footage from the film, or original music. You may voice cast to mimic actor’s voices, but it is not required.
• You should plan for an end-card call-to-action with the Aquaman movie logo. 
• Do NOT include any non-Aquaman franchises or trademarks.
• LEGO bricks cannot be used underwater.
• Videos must avoid any crass language or adult themes / innuendo.

--Target Audience: 

• Boys and Girls 6-12 - They like superheroes in general. Boys will be inspired by Aquaman’s strength, powers, and weapons like the trident, and girls will be inspired by Mera’s powers and her strength as a female lead.
• Men and Women 13+ - These are people who are on the pulse of pop culture, as well as some collectors, which tend to be teenage and adult fans that are already on the look-out for these toys. 

--Tone:

• Aquaman is an action-adventure and quest – the making of a legend. It’s not dark, but fun and more accessible, akin to Indiana Jones. 
• Your video should really excite the audience’s emotions, whether because it’s funny and surprising, or heartfelt and touching. 
• Your video should embody the film’s key themes – identity, water & nature, heroes, & heroines.

--Exposure: Content will be distributed on the WB and WBKids owned digital and social channels.

--Product: The toys will ship in August, so we’ll have samples no later than 9/7/2018. Multiples are also available.

--Anticipated Timeline: 

• STORY DEVELOPMENT:
  • First Draft of Script Due to Tongal:  09/04
  • First Draft of Script Due to WB:  09/05
  • WB & Franchise Consolidated Feedback:  09/10
  • Revised Draft of Script Due to WB: 9/12
  • WB Script Feedback: 9/14
  • First Draft of Storyboards due to WB:  9/18
  • WB Feedback on First Draft of Storyboards due: 9/20
  • Revised Storyboards due to WB:  9/24  
  • WB Feedback on Revised Storyboards due: 9/26  
  • Final Script & Board Approval:  9/27 

• PRE-PRODUCTION & PRODUCTION:

  • VO Casting:  9/4 - 9/12
  • VO options due to WB: 9/14
  • WB feedback / approval on VO Options due: 9/18  
  • Animation:  9/27-10/22
  • Rough Cut due to Tongal: 10/22  
  • Rough Cut due to WB: 10/23
  • WB feedback on Rough Cut: 10/26
  • Fine Cut due to WB: 10/30
  • WB feedback on Fine Cut due: 11/01 EOD
  • Picture Lock due for WB approval: 11/05
  • Final Sign-off and Approval from WB due: 11/08
  • All final materials delivered to WB: 11/12

This project will be worth a total of $27,000 and will consist of 5 Phases: a Pitch Phase, a Pre-Production Phase, a Video Phase, a Revisions Phase and Asset Delivery Phase.

Be sure to read the following information carefully as well as the Official Rules.

PHASE 1: PITCH

Submit your Pitch (What is a Pitch Phase?) convincing the Sponsor why you should be selected to execute a Pilot using:

• Text (REQUIRED): 500 characters or less synopsizing how you plan to approach and execute this Pilot Video.

• Links to Past Work (REQUIRED): Please specify your role (producer, director, animator, etc.) and DO NOT INCLUDE LINKS TO YOUR SHOWREEL. Please link to individual videos.

• Treatment (REQUIRED): A detailed description of your stop-motion animation expertise, your team, and and your capabilities that will allow you to bring this book and script to life in a short form animated series!

• Pitch Video (REQUIRED): This is your opportunity to have a face-to-face virtual meeting with Warner Brothers.  Tell us about your past experience and your animation team.  Consider including a short animation test to show us your skills!

• Storyboards (Optional): You may download the Tongal storyboard template here.

The most compelling Pitch may be selected and, upon submitting the Winner’s Affidavit and the IP Assignment, will receive an initial payment of $5,000 to help create the Video. The remaining payments for production are subject to a payment schedule determined by Tongal, and it is only upon submitting a Video that satisfies the criteria laid out in your winning Pitch, completing Sponsor notes, providing the necessary release forms, and providing all assets required by the sponsor, that the Pitch winner will receive the remainder of their budget.

For an example of an effective Pitch, check out The Indie Machines winning “3 Artists & 5,000 LEGOs” Pitch video. All Pitches will remain private until after the winner of the Video Phase is announced and the Project is complete.  

PHASE 2: PRE-PRODUCTION

If the Sponsor selects a Pitch Winner from the Pitch Phase, the Winner will enter the Pre-Production Phase (What is a Pre-Production Phase?). During this phase, filmmakers will need to receive the following Approvals from the brand: 

• SCRIPT - Working with the writer you are paired with, you must submit a full Script, including all action, dialog, on-screen text, and any V.O. that is present. The brand may provide feedback on your Script and ask you to submit a new version. There may be multiple rounds of feedback until a Script is approved by the brand.
• STORYBOARDS - This project requires Storyboard Approval before you can move onto the Pilot Phase. The brand may provide feedback on your storyboards and ask you for a revision.
• CASTING / VOICEOVER - This project requires Casting & Voiceover Approval before filmmakers move onto the Video Phase. You must provide at least 2 options per role, and the brand may request to see additional options.

No filmmakers may begin shooting their Video until all Approvals are completed and the Video Phase has officially begun. If you begin shooting your Video during the Pre-Production Phase before you have received final approval, there is a chance you will need to reshoot (at your own expense).

PHASE 3: VIDEO

Once the Pre-Production Phase is complete, the Pitch Winner will create a 3-minute Video based upon the winning Pitch. 

--Video Phase Payout: Upon submitting a Video that satisfies the criteria laid out in your winning Pitch, completing Sponsor notes, providing the necessary release forms, and providing all assets required by the sponsor the Pitch winner will receive the remainder of their budget.

--Music: Tongal has partnered with three premiere music providers: Jingle Punks, Killer Tracks and Epidemic Sound, any of which can be used to source music for your Video submission to this Project. Music from these providers is available to registered Tongal members at no charge solely for their incorporation into Submissions to this Project and will not require a separate Music Release Form. To learn more about using each of these music providers, click on any of the provider’s names above. 

If you are selected as a winner and choose to use custom/original music, you must fill out and submit our Music Release Form. If you obtain music from third-party catalog providers, you must purchase the appropriate license at your own expense and submit it with your license purchase receipt when you turn in your Video paperwork.

PHASE 4: REVISIONS 

Once the Video Phase has closed, the winning submitter will enter the Revisions Phase (What is a Revisions Phase?). During this phase, filmmakers will perform reasonable edits on their Pilot Video according to the Sponsor’s feedback. 

PHASE 5: ASSETS DELIVERY

You must also provide all project files, editing sequences and a 1080p .mov master file, using a ProRes, Animation, or Uncompressed Codec in order to submit final payment. You will be responsible for the costs associated the hard drive (if necessary) and shipping.

For Tongal’s file delivery specs and any other questions you may have about post production please click here.

1. The Video MUST not exceed 3 minutes in length. Preferred format for upload to the Tongal website is HD 720p 16x9. Acceptable file formats are .mov, .avi, .mp4, .wmv. Acceptable codecs are H.264 (MP4), MPEG-4, H.263, MPGV, WMV, DivX. 

2. Unless provided otherwise, all work must be your own original creation and free of any copyrighted material. You shall provide detailed information of your work regarding the source, the creator and background information as requested by Tongal.

3. In the event you utilize any third party materials, such as music provided by a third-party music provider not provided by Tongal, you must obtain full written license and consent from the owner of such third party materials and provide such license and consent forms to Tongal.

4. BY SUBMITTING A VIDEO ENTRY, YOUR SUBMISSION IMMEDIATELY BECOMES THE SOLE PROPERTY OF TONGAL OR ITS ASSIGNEES – SEE OFFICIAL RULES FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT OWNERSHIP OF ENTRIES. YOU MAY NOT PUBLICLY SHARE OR PUBLISH YOUR SUBMISSION IN ANY MANNER AND YOU MAY NOT POST OR UPLOAD YOUR SUBMISSION TO ANY WEBSITE OR VIDEO HOSTING SITE (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, FACEBOOK, YOUTUBE OR VIMEO), WITHOUT THE PRIOR EXPRESS WRITTEN CONSENT OF TONGAL.  FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS REQUIREMENT MAY RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION OF YOUR ENTRY IN THE PROJECT.

5. Submissions cannot contain any profanity, offensive language, nudity or otherwise objectionable material, the determination of which is solely at the discretion of Sponsor.

6. Submissions must not portray Sponsor in a negative way, the determination of which will solely reside with Sponsor.

7. By submitting to this project, you acknowledge that your work may become subject to public voting on the Tongal site. Public voting may be used to help the project sponsor determine the final rank order.

8. Videos must be in the English language or subtitled.

9. Limit 5 submissions per member, per Phase.

10. You must be at least thirteen (13) years or older to enter.

11. The Sponsor reserves the right to repost the contest.

12. In addition to the judging criteria stated in the OFFICIAL RULES, Pitches will also be evaluated on that member's ability to execute the final Video based on their prior work and experience as a filmmaker[and insert any additional judging criteria stated in the Deal Memo].

13. The Sponsor will be entitled to reasonable revisions on the finished Video(s) without providing additional compensation. Remember it's easier to re-edit than re-shoot so try to get as much coverage as possible.

14. In addition to the standard Tongal W-9, Winner Affidavit, and IP Assignment, winning Video creators MUST also provide Talent, Location, Music (or other) Releases for all assets appearing in their winning Videos, as well as a photograph/headshot OR copy of a photo ID for all On-camera Talent releases. 

15. See OFFICIAL RULES for additional contest information, terms and conditions. If there is any conflict or inconsistency between these requirements and the Official Rules, the terms and conditions of these requirements shall prevail.