"The Wild Thornberrys Movie" was not filmed on location in the jungles of Africa or in the civilized boarding schools of London, but it may as well have been. As with every episode of the celebrated series, the film crew made a study of every location, learning all they could about its tribal peoples, jungle creatures and their habitats. In fact, all the depictions of cultures and ecosystems in "The Wild Thornberrys Movie" are based on fact and rooted in respect for those who actually live in the environment.
This habit of meticulous research and regard for flora and fauna alike won the TV show two coveted Genesis Awards (1999, 2000), given by the nonprofit animal protection organization, Ark Trust, to members of the news and entertainment media for positive portrayals of animal issues.
Now on the big screen, the film, like the enormously popular TV show, features all the favorite characters audiences have come to love. Together with an exciting lineup of stars and with animation as fresh and spirited as the witty dialogue, this wonderful cast brings to the big screen an epic wild adventure that takes feature animation to new heights.
"This is our first real family adventure comedy, and we are extremely proud of its quality both in terms of the story and the extraordinary animation." says Albie Hecht, President of Film and TV Entertainment for Nickelodeon. "It’s a film with true family appeal and a fantasy fulfillment like no other. I mean, who hasn’t dreamed about what it would be like to communicate with animals? And now, here’s a film in which you can experience nature though the eyes of a 12-year-old who can do just that."
Senior Vice President of Nickelodeon Movies Julia Pistor credits Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo for the success of the television series as well as for what she believes is one of the best forms of entertainment for young people: one that helps them explore and learn without hitting them over the head with facts.
"The team of Klasky and Csupo is, in a word, genius," says Pistor. "They manage to educate and entertain in the same moment, and they do it with such light-hearted fun that kids aren’t even aware they’re learning something. Parents love it too, not only for that reason, but because all the characters and every storyline is truly engaging."
Hecht couldn’t agree more. "Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo are true pioneers in the field," he says, "and right up there at the top of the list of the most brilliant people I know. Their innovative mix of creativity and authenticity is what gives the sense of wonderment that’s at the core of everything connected with the Thornberrys.
Always focused on the three A’s of the show -- authenticity, accuracy and adventure --which they have translated into the feature film, both Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo remain steadfast about maintaining high quality and always being true to nature and the various cultures their characters explore.
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