Hey A.j.
it’s saturday
the cartoon
Medium: 2D Animation
project overview
Title: Hey AJ It's Saturday The Cartoon
Date: 2018
Episodes: Two episodes based on the books by the same title
Goal: Develop and create my own animated series using the intellectual property (IP) from my children's book series.
Roles and Responsibilities
Roles and Responsibilities
Creator: I conceptualized and developed the entire Hey AJ franchise.
Director: I led the creative vision and direction of the series.
Writer: I developed the script and storyline for the episodes.
Character Designer: I created and developed the characters.
World Builder: I designed the world in which the story takes place.
Music Developer: I directed the music for the series.
Casting Director: I held auditions to find the right voices for the characters.
Composer: I composed the original score.
director Notes
As the director my intention was to gradually reveal the adventure and whimsy in a way that mimicked the turning of a page in a book. With each turn, the excitement and wonder would build, making each moment more thrilling than the last. I aimed to create a pacing that allowed the audience to fully immerse themselves in A.J.'s imaginative world, experiencing the unfolding magic just as A.J. does.
My goal was to showcase the power of imagination, making the series adventurous, playful, and fun, all from a kid's point of view—a kid's world.
Expanding on the pages of the book, I wanted to animate the in-between moments, the wonder between the pages, and explore the "what if" the book came to life. To add an element of conflict, I created the breakfast-loving Monkey Pirate King and his crew as the antagonists.
The humor in the series is sharp and a bit dry, which I believe makes it appealing to all ages. There's slapstick comedy, one-liners, classic cartoon humor, and just a bunch of silliness. I mean, there's a Jamaican giraffe on rollerblades—need I say more?
The art style of A.J.'s world is delightfully cartoony and whimsical, perfectly capturing the essence of her vivid imagination. It feels like the Saturday morning cartoons I grew up watching in the 90s.
However, trying to allow the scenes to unfold like the pages of a book did create some pacing issues. Things felt a tad bit slow at times, especially in the first episode. The second episode moves quicker.
"Hey A.J., It's Saturday The Cartoon" represents my ability to not only conceptualize a physical product like the Hey AJ Series but to grow it into a franchise. For A.J., I have created books, merchandise, toys, interactive apps, and now animation.
The work put into these episode are a testament to my determination to prove myself as a business, especially when no one wanted to hire me.
This project taught me the importance of perseverance and creativity in building a franchise. I was determined to prove myself and create something that resonated with audiences.
The experience of creating "Hey A.J., It's Saturday! The Cartoon" was life-changing, and I am grateful for everyone who participated and supported the making of this project.
Episode 002
DOWN A CREPE-Y SMOOTHIE RIVER
"Hey A.J., It's Saturday! The Cartoon" is a whimsical adventure that transforms everyday moments into extraordinary escapades through the boundless imagination of a child.
Final Cut
The creative journey of bringing "Hey A.J., It's Saturday! The Cartoon" to life has been nothing short of extraordinary. It has taught me the invaluable lesson that believing in yourself is the most crucial element in any endeavor.
When no one else believes in your vision, the most important thing is that you do.
Perseverance, creativity, and unwavering self-belief have been my guiding principles throughout this project.
I am thrilled to announce that "Hey A.J." is becoming an animated TV series on Disney Junior and Disney+!
This high-energy adventure comedy will bring A.J.'s imaginative world to life on screen. The series, set to premiere in 2025, is a testament to the power of imagination and the importance of believing in your dreams.
I am incredibly grateful for everyone who participated and supported the making of this project, and I can't wait to share A.J.'s adventures with a wider audience.
Adventure Awaits…
with love + imagination
-MR. TOMONOSHi!