Photograph Harley Jessup
PETER SOHN
This movie started with a single drawing—a dinosaur with a little boy. The moment we saw it, we knew that was the heart of the film, the place where all the electricity was. However, everything else about the story was a mystery. Trying to figure out where those characters came from, what they were going through, and where they would end up has taken many years.
From early on, we were drawn to the idea that these two characters had a classic “boy and his dog” relationship—but with the dinosaur as the “boy,” and the human as the “dog.” We loved the idea of them navigating the world together, learning about themselves and each other, and helping one another grow up. This time of life is intimidating, thrilling, and often scary, and we wanted to set their story in a place that would visually evoke the challenges they were facing.
We found the perfect inspiration in the wide-open landscapes of Wyoming and Idaho. The massive plains and plateaus, thundering rivers, and dramatic mountain ranges would make even the largest dinosaur feel small. But you’re also always drawn in by the gorgeous light and fantastic details of the changing terrain. The artists on this film have done an incredible job translating the spirit of what we saw there into the world of our story.
They also worked similar magic designing the characters. We always knew we wanted our characters to both appeal to what people love about dinosaurs, and hopefully, surprise them with something they were not expecting. Sometimes finding that perfect combination was the most effortless process in the world, with characters immediately jumping into three-dimensional life. Other characters only slowly came into focus after layers and layers of conversation and countless drawings.
Each discovery, though, was only made possible by all the hours and experiences that went into the project from its very earliest days. Thank you to all the filmmakers who gave their talents to this project at every stage of its existence. This journey could not have been made without you.
Lighting Study Sharon Calahan
Photograph Harley Jessup
Concept Art Noah Klocek
Photograph Harley Jessup
Storyboard Rosana Sullivan & Louise Smythe
Photograph Harley Jessup
Concept Art Noah Klocek