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Shreveport-based Moonbot Studios produces 'The Numberlys' pilot episode for Amazon

Kate Archer Kent

Shreveport-based Moonbot Studios created a show pilot for Amazon Studios fall kids’ pilot season that debuted Thursday. “The Numberlys” is one of six animated children’s show projects contending to be a full series. 

Moonbot Studios co-founder Brandon Oldenburg says the colorful Numberlys started as a Webby-award winning app a few years ago, morphed into a best-selling picture book, evolved into a short film and now it’s in the running to be a children’s show for Amazon Prime viewers.

“If we’re so fortunate to move into a full season for this show that would mean more jobs. It would mean a need for more space, and it would basically mean a whole team dedicated to just creating this show,” Oldenburg said.

The 11-minute episode, titled “Go Green,” targets preschool viewers. It explores the ups-and-downs of a tiny green sprout growing in “The Numberlys” rigid concrete and metal society. The friends don’t know what it is, but with teamwork and TLC they grow a gracious tree for all the Numberlys to enjoy in their unique way.

Oldenburg thinks Amazon is an ideal space to keep “The Numberlys” story alive because there’s tremendous potential to grow the franchise.

“With one click you’re one step away from not only being able to engage with the show, but also being able to engage with any further extension of that show -- whether it would be a game, plush toy or books -- it’s all right there,” Oldenburg said.

The other preschool show pilot is “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie,” based on the books by Laura Numeroff. The other four pilots are for grade schoolers. Oldenburg hopes viewers leave generous feedback, which could improve the odds of "The Numberlys" getting the go-ahead for an Amazon series.

Chuck Smith brings more than 30 years' broadcast and media experience to Red River Radio. He began his career as a radio news reporter and transitioned to television journalism and newsmagazine production. Chuck studied mass communications at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia and motion picture / television production at the University of California at Los Angeles. He has also taught writing for television at York Technical College in Rock Hill, South Carolina and video / film production at Centenary College of Louisiana, Shreveport.
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