Copernicus Studios Readies Collab with SpongeBob Head Writer

Canada’s Copernicus Studios is prepping the animated pilot short film Death Castle, written and directed by Mr. Lawrence, the head writer of SpongeBob SquarePants.

The 6-minute, 2D comedy-horror short is currently being developed into a new adult animation series.

Primetime Emmy-winner Craig Kellman (Penguins of Madagascar, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2) serves as art director and is co-producing the film with Paul Rigg, president and co-founding partner of Copernicus Studios, and Matthew Huerto, Copernicus’ head of production.

Uli Meyer (Mary Poppins Returns, Aladdin [2019], Space Jam), Dean Roberts (Frankenweenie, Ron’s Gone Wrong) and Gabriele Zucchelli (The Jungle Book [2016], Guardians of the Galaxy, Alien vs. Predator) are lead animators on the project. The film is executive produced by Mr. Lawrence and MaryAnn Lawrence.

Rigg said, “It’s been a blast to bring together some of the finest minds in the animation industry to create something completely out of the ordinary. Bringing Mr. Lawrence’s vision to life with such a unique animation style will be an incredible proof-point to create an amazing animated series in future.”

Mr. Lawrence added, “I think audiences will be both shocked and delighted at this gem of a screwball comedy. And with a team like Craig, Uli, Dean, Gabriele and Copernicus on board, you can’t go wrong!”