The Guardians’ of the Universe return to protect the fabric of the cosmos from disintegrating after a magical toy has been stolen.
The Return of The Royals(ROTR) is a labor of love. The idea for this superhero short film came at the beginning of 2016 during Production class. I had finished my first assignment, a short vignette, a combination of a song and visuals that reflect who we are. It’s only afterward, I realized the film that I should have made. Thus, the superhero short was born.
ROTR is mash-up of The Royals, a graphic novel manuscript (co-written by my spouse & I); an ode to 90’s cartoon nostalgia, and of course sports references. It’s an amalgamation of the past and present; the cartoons and animated films that inspired me as a child to create my own original superheroes and my current inspirations. Most of all, it’s a dedication to the love of my life.
I’m very thankful to have been given the opportunity to create this film and for all the love, support, and encouragement. “Producing a film, like playing football is truly a team sport.” We encountered several challenges and obstacles along the way, such as a mini-tornado, re-shooting, multiple re-writes due to injuries, no lead actress (I cameoed). In the end, I think it was my spouse and universe saying, “Sara, go back into acting.”
Nevertheless, we worked together, rose above and pulled through- as a team. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to the cast & crew, and everyone who helped along the way.
Thank you for helping me bring this film to life!
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Credits
Starring:
James McKinnon as Super Toy
Jason Russell (Guest Star)
Sara Barton (Cameo)
Katie Gray
Brett Bullard
Jo Ambrosia as Sailor Moon
Chris Hughes
Dillon Herbig
Head Director: Sara Barton
Co-Directors: Paolo “PJ” Piccolo and Nicky Mudryy
Screenplay/Story: Sara Barton
Editors/VFX: Paolo “PJ” Piccolo, Sarah Beim(Vellichor Productions), Sara Barton and Anna Lee Hewing
Executive Producer: Sara Barton
Co-Producers: Pocky Southmayd, Nicole Hope Caliendo, April Twist
FOLLOW US!
Official website: https://rotrfilm.wordpress.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ROTRFilm
Instagram: @abartons.studios
Off the Record 