In an era where cinema is constantly evolving, the spirit of innovation remains the beacon that guides storytelling into uncharted territories. Jared Egol, a prodigious talent with a background that spans from creative writing to screenwriting, is at the forefront of this evolution. Egol’s journey from aspiring medical student to celebrated screenwriter and executive producer of “Planet Orson” encapsulates a fascinating tale of passion, creativity, and relentless pursuit of storytelling excellence.
Egol’s academic odyssey took him from the University of Florida, where he initially studied Creative Writing with an eye towards entering medical school, to Chapman University. It was there that he received his MFA in Screenwriting under the tutelage of industry luminaries such as Julie Kirkham, Tom Mankiewicz, Larry Gross, and Ron Friedman. This mentorship not only honed Egol’s craft but also led him to assist Friedman in penning his memoir “I Killed Optimus Prime,” a pivotal moment that intertwined Egol’s destiny with transformative storytelling.
The screenplay for “Planet Orson,” previously titled “Orson” until it was ingeniously rebranded by producer Eric Calderon, serves as a testament to Egol’s narrative prowess. Garnering accolades such as scores between 8s and 9s on the Black List website and winning “Best Screenplay” at the 2023 Beaufort International Film Festival underlines its exceptional quality. Described by GOOD WILL HUNTING producer Su Armstrong as “a tour de force,” it navigates through the tumultuous final days of Orson Welles as he endeavors to mend fences with his estranged daughter Christopher while ambitiously striving to fund a capstone film project.
What sets “Planet Orson” apart is its audacious blend of historical reality with fantastical elements—where members of a persistent documentary film crew are depicted as cartoon characters from TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE. This whimsical yet profound narrative device explores themes of artistic integrity, personal redemption, and the complex interplay between commercial pressures and creative aspirations.
Egol’s visionary approach extends beyond traditional filmmaking into multimedia storytelling realms. The development of “Planet Orson” into a stop-motion animated feature signifies a bold step towards innovative cinema. Collaborating with Open The Portal studio—renowned for their work on Netflix’s THE HISTORY OF SWEAR WORDS and A24’s MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON—this project assures to be a surrealist masterpiece blending elements reminiscent of A CHRISTMAS CAROL and ANOMALISA.
Moreover, the adaptation of “Planet Orson” into a graphic novel further exemplifies Egol’s commitment to exploring different mediums for storytelling. Spearheaded by Tristan Yuvienco (Disney Channel’s THE OWL HOUSE), this venture is poised to captivate audiences with its unique aesthetic and compelling narrative depth.
The creation of the “PLANET ORSON EP” by Esoteric from Czarface amplifies this project’s cultural resonance. It not only celebrates Orson Welles’ legacy but also bridges generations by connecting his contributions to both cinema and hip-hop culture—a feat that underscores Egols’ multifaceted approach to honoring artistic legends.
Despite facing challenges inherent in pioneering subversive content that straddles both IP-driven entertainment and indie artistry, Egol remains undeterred. His ability to navigate these complexities speaks volumes about his dedication and visionary outlook. As expressed by Eric Calderon, this project illuminates untapped audience segments yearning for narratives that defy conventional categorizations.
Through “Planet Orson,” Jared Egol has embarked on an ambitious quest not just to pay homage to one of cinema’s greatest icons but also to redefine what biographical storytelling can encompass in modern filmmaking. It stands as a beacon for future generations—a reminder that artistry knows no bounds when fueled by passion and imagination.
As we anticipate the release of this groundbreaking project, one cannot help but reflect on Egol’s own words: “Your story is the one you care about…” In telling Orson Welles’ story through such inventive lenses, Jared Egol not only honors cinematic history but also charts a new course for its future—a course where creativity reigns supreme amidst the ever-evolving landscape of film-making.
For more insights into this riveting project and ways you can support it visit (www.kickstarter.com/projects/planetorson/planet-orson).
Jared Egol’s journey reaffirms our belief in cinema’s power to explore complex human emotions through innovative narratives—reiterating that stories well-told have the power not just to entertain but profoundly impact our understanding of life itself.
Published By: Aize Perez
