Second post!

AHHHHH!!!

needs faster internet..f..sdf.dgDDKGJDG

Guys… seriously… words cannot do this justice. This has got to be the greatest presentation of what Myst could, should and will be in a theatrical form. You have soared high above ANY expectations that we could have ever had for you.

This work, has summed up what the Book of Ti’ana encompassed. Anger, Loyalty, Betrayal, Injustice, Love, Honor, Pride. It has taken the people of D’ni that only existed on paper and breathed life into them. This theatrical trailer not only wets my appetite for a movie, but I’m sure that work of this calibur would attract not only the help of Hollywood, but their utmost blessing and care to turn this into a movie that rivals that of The Lord of the Rings trilogy and the Harry Potter franchise combined. This takes fantasy to a whole new level, and it put a very realistic tone into it all.

Adrian, Patrick, and to all who made merely the theatrical trailer possible, I give you my heartfelt thanks and my utmost belief and support for the Book of Ti’ana movie. This will not only be received well, but also become something the likes of which has never been seen before. Myst, D’ni, the Ages and the people are being brought to life and taking from the paper into the form of something beautiful. This has to be my lengthiest post right now, but it deserves it. I have such a flood of emotion and surprise flowing from mind that it puts me to shame to be allowed in your presence. My artwork that I thought of as “concept art” pales in comparison to these storyboards. I am humbled to be around a group of people as proud, wise and mentally sharp as you are.

The Miller brothers are proud, Cyan World is proud, and now the entire Myst fanbase is proud. All that’s left is to make the world proud.

“From an expanse as wide and vast as the night skies, leap into the unknown. It is only in that place of fleeting moments that you will realize what is true and what is real. Gather the knowledge like grains of sand in your hands and let them tumble through your fingers. Let the cosmos ring and the universe echo as the world is brought to life again.”

Congratulations to all of you. This is truly an impressive landmark in the creation of the Myst Movie.

Time for 2 comments:

1) Put this up for download, or something alongside the idea. We need this on YouTube, at the Guild sites, Cyan Worlds needs to promote it, get this to the news. This is IT. This is what needs to be done and the world is ready for it. If the two of you don’t want this done yet, I understand, but the time will have to come

2) If this becomes an actual trailer, make it the last one before the movie comes out. This one gives away almost the entire plot, so it would be like a 3rd or 4th trailer (kinda like how the Dark Knight has done their trailers. Theirs give away an increasing amount as time goes on).

Again, brilliant job, and I’m glad to have been able to be apart of this (for however long I’ve been here).

Thank you so much for all you’ve done. To all who were, are, and will be a part of this.

Well Done!

~Nek’rahm

:O

That’s all I can say.

And yes, please youtube or download or something… I want to watch it again and don’t want to wait for a year…

You’re right, Veovis is kinda eclipsing everyone else… But that is perfectly all right with me!! That was well worth the wait!!!!!

Not quite how I pictured linking panels though.

I wish that you had some dialouge from Ti’ana. XD but I suppose you couldn’t find a female voiceactor in time?

eeeeeeeeeee, pardon me while I show ALL MY FRIENDS EVER. Well, all my Myst friends. Eeee.

*makes incoherent happy Eleri noises*

Just a few of initial comments:

Unequivocal and unrelenting praise is not going to help the movie be the best it could be. Say what’s good, but make sure to say what could be improved, otherwise it looks like blind fanaticism, or worse, brown-nosing.

Note 1: Sexual climax implied in the hand-hold. Having seen RAWA’s comments about how one should avoid obvious consummation of a relationship in any script which wants to be taken seriously by Cyan, I am curious about this inclusion. The book uses Cyan’s apparent preference to have children delivered by stork.

Note 2: Lots of kissing. Seems to be a high percentage of intimate stills compared to the length of the animatic. James Cameron does very well including love stories in most things he does, and I support this for a powerful movie. But in combination with the suggestive hand-hold, I have to wonder where you are coming from.

Note 3: I just read the book of Ti’ana a week ago. Atrus is indifferent and observational up through Anna’s introduction to the Council and beyond to her assignment to his household. He does not know her, though he knows of her. His outburst in her defense before Council seems quite premature.

Note 4: I do not know the official pronunciation of “Veovis” and if you are 100% accurate, that’s how it should be. But I think Vee-o-vis with accent on first syllable sounds far less distinguished than Vee-ahh-vis with accent on second syllable. These people are posh, upper-crust, and the latter pronunciation sound much more hoi-poloi.

Note 5: I think the BoT fails at providing enough motive for Veovis and others to do what they do – the characters are a bit flat. I hope you can bring greater dimension and life to them. The book exactly transcribed would not convince a movie audience. That’s where a love story would come in handy, but don’t do that at the expense of other characterizations. Good characterization will make the love story even more real and important in contrast.

And to anyone worried about giving away the plot. Well, the book kinda does that already.

Note 2: Lots of kissing. Seems to be a high percentage of intimate stills compared to the length of the animatic. James Cameron does very well including love stories in most things he does, and I support this for a powerful movie. But in combination with the suggestive hand-hold, I have to wonder where you are coming from.

I hope that if they stay away from monkies on beaches that Cyan will accept it. Also, it’s just a hand hold. Catherine and Atrus hold hands, damn it. >>;;;

Herohtar: which is why they need a female voice actor to do the darn dialouge XD

The last sentence in my previous was poorly worded. Read it as: That’s where a love story would come in handy, but don’t do that at the expense of other characterizations. Good characterization will make the love story even more real and important in contrast.
.
And to anyone worried about giving away the plot. Well, the book kinda does that already.
.
Now, to respond:
.
Those aren’t hands swaying in the breeze on a stroll along the beach. Those are hands pressed into the bedsheets in a quintessential PG-13 orgasm. Not that I mind. I’m fine with orgasms onscreen or anywhere. Did you all see “History of Violence?” Heh. James Cameron, who I mentioned earlier, did the same hand-squeeze thing in “Terminator” with Reece and Sarah Connor to beget John. And so does your average soap opera. But there’s nothing like it in the book, and RAWA has stated his preference for the absence of such things, so I think it warrants attention.

*makes very annoying high-pitched noise of joy*

YES! YES YES YES!! This is . . . wow . . . words cannot describe how totally awesome this is.

Words fail me. If the movie delivers what you’ve promised in the trailer there will be at least one Myst fan who has absolutely zero complaints. I just… my mind is blown. That was awesome beyond all possible ability of words to describe.

That great A & P,Just one little thing, at 33 seconds in the beginning you have to pronounce D’Ni.. *DUNNY*

And, Someone in here should get a Job to pass time?

So, Adrian did nearly all of the voices eh?

For a second I thought Anna was a guy XD

The Stranger: Adrian and Patrick are going with Book!Canon, becuase the New Mexico thing is stupid and doesn’t fit. Really, it is, and I feel that shift was entirely unnecessary on Cyan’s part for multiple reasons, the least of which is the horrible historical inaccuracy. And believe me, I’ve done the research – I actually read a book on the history of New Mexico, and it just would not have worked. Besides which? There’s no volcanic activity in New Mexico. guess where there IS? The Mediterranean. Which means the Middle East.

the New Mexico shift was something done purely for Uru, and therefore I agree with their use of book canon in this case. Books > Uru anyway. Uru was mildly fun, but the books were far, far better (especially BoA and BoT.)

Yey! Finnally! It looks great. You guys really know how to show the promise this story has to be a great movie. Can’t wait to see what it really looks like when it’s finished.

Remember, I’m still volunteering to be an extra when you need them.

Ryuu: the facts are the facts.It was told that d’ni is in New Maxico.I agree that the middle east sounds better,but it’s just the info cyan worlds gave us.This is how it is.

“and I feel that shift was entirely unnecessary on Cyan’s part for multiple reasons”

Think about it: cyan worlds didn’t just do it for fun.There’s probebly something behind their decision,don’t you think?

“I actually read a book on the history of New Mexico, and it just would not have worked. Besides which? There’s no volcanic activity in New Mexico.”

And that’s why it’s called A VIDEO GAME.Things don’t have to be real.

“Uru was mildly fun, but the books were far, far better (especially BoA and BoT.)”

For you,anyway.

Ryuu,I know what you mean,I didn’t liked MOUL (uru) that much too.But I came to accept what it is.I still don’t agree with a lot of the canon,but there are still some nice things.Think about it…New Maxico…all the wild west thing…sound pretty cool to me.

Gentlemen: the day I watch a movie set in “ancient” New Mexico is the day during which I eat a pound of broken glass. I will say no more.

…And seriously, holding hands is a problem? Did I bonk my head and wake up in the 1950′s? Were Elvis’s hip thrusts all for naught?

This is just amazing, it’s above all my expectations!

The trailer really emphasises the impact Anna’s coming (and especially her union with Aitrus) had on D’ni.

About the hands… they are just hands in my opinion. I understand that it’s suggestive, and JWPlatt shows that’s easy to picture the rest of the scene, but only adults would do that I think. I don’t think of sex when I see two hands, and especially not as extensively as JWPlatt put it. That may be because I’m not an adult, so I don’t think it’s a problem for younger people.
I like the hands personally, because they symbolise the union between Aitrus and Anna.
If we’re talking about the shot before the hands when they seem to be undressed… Yeah, then you have a point, but if it stays like that, just a shot, it would be quite decent compared to what people see in other movies nowadays.
Nek’rahm, I too recognise the ending music. I think it’s from a movie that isn’t too old. I can’t place it at the moment… It certainly fits.

I’ve just watched it again… my heart pulse quickens each time I watch it! It’s just brilliant! I really like how Veovis and his father and their relationship have been outlined. I just can’t find enough words to describe how awesome this trailer is…

This will certainly appeal to the masses. It has to be.

Thanks for giving us this preview. I truly think you will become the ones to re-introduce Myst to the public and will regenerate the interest in the D’niverse. You have my full support!

“There’s no volcanic activity in New Mexico.”

Are you so sure? because I found one volcano in New Mexico in a quick google search.

“Gentlemen: the day I watch a movie set in “ancient” New Mexico is the day during which I eat a pound of broken glass. I will say no more.”

Why being so negetive? I mean,I looked around for New Mexico history,and it seems there were cowboys,indians,and all sort of things.

By the way, at 4:05 / 4:06 … is that the entrance to the Guild Hall as we see it in Uru?

Actually Cyan said that D’ni was under New Mexico from the beginning, and the sandy middle-east desert was just a bad guess on Wingrove’s part. D’ni was not moved for Uru, unless you have reasons to believe they are not telling the truth.

It’s not the first thing to be wrong in the books; Kerath’s arch too doesn’t look at all like the one in D’ni and it’s smaller copy in Riven.

Concerning whether or not to use New Mexico or the Middle East, it’s really up to Cyan and what they’ll agree to for the movie.

On that note, there are several volcanoes in and bordering New Mexico (see USGS “New Mexico Volcanoes and Volcanics” : http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/Volcanoes/NewMexico/framework.html)

As far as camels go, camels first appeared in New Mexico (officially) as early as 1857, where a line of 25 camels were led by Edward Fitzgerald Beale during his exploration of the Southwestern United States, in fact, he wrote of his encounters with the Native Americans in the area, and how they responded to seeing camels for the first time (see Edward Fitzgerald Beale: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Fitzgerald_Beale)

On JWPlatt’s suggestion to do more than simply acknowledge the fine product of hard work that this animatic has become (as “Unequivocal and unrelenting praise… looks like blind fanaticism, or worse, brown-nosing,”), here are some critical thoughts on the animatic:

1) Where some find fault with the “sexual” connotations of the held-hands, I feel that romantic, and even sexual interactions can be tastefully done, and I trust that the Mysteriacs are not planning on creating a smut piece. On that note, as long as the relationship is well-developed and not simply a “you sure are mighty pretty, and here we are all alone… baby-makin’ ” type scene, I believe that there should not be an issue. Do not sacrifice character for emotion, but rather incorporate emotion in character.

2) I agree that the novel itself does seem to lack development in the area of Veovis, and I am happy that the animatic appears to go into more depth concerning his motivation and actions. As long as the sometimes rash actions of the novel are more filled-out in the film, I don’t believe that it will be an issue.

3) Again, a hollowness permeates in the novel concerning the Aitrus’s thoughts surrounding Anna. The trailer seems to develop the conflict between Aitrus and the council as they debate what should be done with the surface-dweller. As long as character is developed, and Aitrus is not simply looking for a fight, this could be very powerful.

4) As a small and final note concerning the “revealing” nature of this animatic, I agree that while it does give away a good portion of the plot, it would be an outstanding theatrical-trailer shown just before release of the final feature.

In the end, and in respect to the Mysteriacs, it is hard to find many complaints within this fine demonstration of devotion and perseverance. Even as I watched the animatic over and over in an effort to develop these few small complaints, I continue to be in awe of the raw power that emits from the images and speech. Shivers still spread through my body. Great job guys, I have full faith in your future efforts.

~Alehkhs

Well Tomahna, this was done about 4 years ago XD

And it was just a rough idea. I’m sure that they’d use real people for the next trailer.

Technically speaking, that was superbly well-crafted. One complaint: I really hope the dialogue in the final draft of the screenplay is less stilted. I know the D’ni are an elitist race, but it’ll be difficult for anyone to listen to all those “shalls” and non-contractions. I know, part of it is the delivery by a non-thespian, and part of it is that the animatic is so many years old. I’m just hoping/assuming that both of your dialogue-writing chops have developed since then, as I’d hate for that to spoil such an ambitious, creative project. There are plently of books out there on writing realistic dialogue – not that yours is bad, it just sounds like it needs some definite polishing if that’s what we’ll be hearing in the final product.

My $.02…

Wow, looking good. I’m excited to see things coming along and I can’t wait for more of the same. Though I have to agree with JWPlatt–Cyan wants to keep stuff associated with them family-friendly so don’t push the suggestive content. But, looking good. And I coulda sworn that music was from the Two Towers trailer, not Prince Caspian…

I can just feel the potential oozing off the animatic.

But if there’s one thing I’ve learned from Uru, it’s that potential will only meet you half-way… So I’ll keep my eyes open and my enthusiasm tempered, at least until the script is done and they begin the long hard search for funds.

As far as Turjan’s music, yeah I can totally see that.

But if there’s one thing I know, it’s that making a score for a film is about 9 times harder than it looks or sounds, and requires weeks and weeks of non-stop dedication, attention, and pure sweating it out… No ‘waiting’ for the muse to strike when there’s a deadline.

Not to discourage anyone of course. Let’s just all keep in mind that we can all imagine contributing whatever talents we have; the problem is, not many people think about the cost in pure grunt-work.

Ok, look folks. Many of you do not see the issue. That is not a hand-hold, even though that’s how I initially described it. If you look at the animatic, it is two clasped hands pressed into soft bedsheets. There can be only one reason for that shot. I appreciate sexuality in films. Sexuality is not my concern here, no matter how blatent or how obscure. My concern is about Cyan giving a green light to a Myst Movie. And my concern comes from this quote, directly from RAWA himself:
.
RAWA wrote (about the scuttled miniseries):
“But I will give a hint for anyone planning to submit an outline to develop the Myst stories for another medium: The words “Atrus and Catherine consummate their relationship” do not belong anywhere in the Book of Atrus. Believe me, that one hint alone will save us all a great deal of time. ”
http://forums.drcsite.org/viewtopic.php?p=29883#29883
.
I realize RAWA is speaking of different characters from a different book, but it does represent Cyan’s views and values. As a fan of Cyan, of Myst, of Uru, I felt I should not let this pass unchallenged. Because I want to see a movie. If Cyan says okay to an onscreen cosummation or conception of Gehn as the animatic scenes suggest, that’s great. I’d love to see it. I think it’s much more realistic to include sexuality, and I’d rather it be there. But the best word I have to go on about what is acceptable to Cyan, is RAWA’s word.

JW, I think your getting all worked up about nothing. I think that if they film that scene (if it’s still in the script) and Cyan doesn’t like it, they can cut it. The scene won’t make or break the film and we are far, far from a final cut.

Wow Nek’rahm
Your review at the top couldn’t have been said better. That’s all I gotta say.

As for the desert, I don’t care where it’s shot, just as long as it can be dressed up to look a bit similar to Uru’s desert (which won’t take much work, right?).

@AndyBlooShoes

A lot of the music was from Hans Zimmer’s “King Arthur” soundtrack (Not that great a movie, but nice music), and the Action-y theme near the end was Requiem of a Dream – The Two Towers edition. (Peter Jackson actually commisioned a “more exciting” version of the Requiem theme for the Two Towers trailer, and it’s been used in action/fantasy movies ever since.) Not sure about the rest, though.

Completely mindblowingly awesome. I LOVE the angle you guys have taken on the story. It feels massively epic!! Well done

Oh somehow my name is always changing! I’m really AndyBlooShoes.

Nice work guys. Here are my thoughts:

1) Don’t listen to anyone complaining about hand-holding. They’re probably thirteen-year-old fundamentalists. People have sex. Get used to it. Sexual intimacy is a wonderful, beautiful thing and nothing to be ashamed of, hide, or censor. Aitrus and Ti’ana love each other. I can’t BELIEVE anyone, Cyan included, would get all riled up about a shot of clasped hands. It isn’t pornography.

2) The animatic definitely conveyed a sense of your passion for the story, which I think is all it was meant to do. I’m refraining from judging it from an artistic perspective, assuming instead that the production/creative value will be considerably raised once actual production begins (with actors, real sound equipment/cameras, and an original score). That being said, the only thing I’m worried about is the dialogue, but I’m assuming that you’ve both polished your writing skills in the years since the animatic was created.

3) To the fans: don’t be afraid to constructively criticize. All the praise in the world, while good for the ego, doesn’t help a creative project one bit. These guys are still in pre-production. There’s still plenty of time for polishing. Don’t worry about hurting anybody’s feelings. Constructive criticism is given for one reason: not to put anyone down, but in an attempt to help out of respect and admiration both of the project and its creators.

I’m hoping more that they write the Book of Marrim, over Uru coming back. Cause if Ti’ana goes over well, Atrus and D’ni will be wanted. This means that we should get the next two books and a LOT more content History wise.

I would certainly look forward to that day every day of my life leading up to it!

And YES for Book of Marrim – it all fits in so perfectly! If Cyan just focuses on writing Book of Marrim now, that is. Gametap still has the rights for two more years (if they do not give them up first) and this movie should be out in 1-2 years. Then, once they have the rights back, they’ll use the money from the movie and the book to make their OWN Uru!

Anyone who says you guys have been wasting your time in 2004 clearly hasn’t seeen this animatic.

I saw the trailer animatic yesterday – terrific work! It’s quite a payoff after reading through the blog posts detailing all the work going into it.
…
Regarding the request to see more action: I’m sure the final trailer will insert more scenes during the voice-over than these static images of people talking.

This is very
very
cool.
.
I love it.
.
No more words right now. Just… amazing work!!

If nobody minds, I’m uploading it to youtube.

Erm, I’m waiting to see if Cyan Worlds is okay with it first, cause I don’t wanna get sued.

I’d suggest sending a letter to legal, since I haven’t gotten a reply.

Oh…. okay.

Welp, either way, my upload has already commenced. So far, waited 20 minutes for it to upload.

It’s up on YouTube now.

Account is: BookofTiana
Video: Myst – The Book of Ti’ana Animatic Trailer

It’s up now.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=589qsjSlomE

Oh well

Spread the love I guess :S

WOW Looking good so far!! I am looking forward to seeing more!

The music has indeed gotten quite popular ever since it’s original debut! I heard it playing earlier, but I think it fits Myst the best.

Not bad at all.

Some points from skimming the comments:

Mystriven: pronouncing D’ni “dunny” will make the movie unshowable in Australia, or anywhere people know that “dunny” is an ancient word for lavatory. Yeesha says “duh-NEE” and that is the more logical pronunciation from the Romanised spelling. (I’m ignoring Esher because I still think he was an impostor.)

Various people: the hand-holding issue is a storm in a teacup. As someone pointed out, Cyan have already seen the animatic and okayed the production on that basis. It’s hardly likely that Adrian and Patrick will do anything that they know might put the mockers on that. I think those of us who are still Uru fans are so used to tiptoeing around outside the door that says “CYAN/GAMETAP SEKRIT DISKUSSIONS KEEP OWT” that we’ve perhaps become overly sensitive to what we imagine their feelings to be.

Ryuu Tenshi and others: I don’t see what’s so bad about it being in New Mexico. I’ve seen photographs of extinct volcanoes in NM, so I’m not sure of the validity of claiming that there’s no volcanic activity there. But whether it’s in New Mexico, the Middle East, or under a slag heap near Doncaster, it will be where the writers decide to put it, and that decision will be taken with input from Cyan. If we then choose to go all hoity-toity and not watch the movie because we think they have got their story wrong, that really is our problem. Well, I say ours. It won’t be mine.

Nek’rahm: perhaps your perception of parts of it as “boring” is in part a function of how many times you’ve watched it. Seriously, it is what it is. I had to watch the first bit several times due to the vagaries of my video player on here, and yes, it’s drawings with recycled music and one guy doing all the voices. Even so, it carries enough of the power and passion behind both the original story and this project to give an idea of what they can achieve given the resources they need.

Woot! Way to go guys! Awesome job!

I agree with Nek’rahm…

The stories from the Myst Universe are a little hard to grasp if you’re not already into them. I’m glad that the animatic is just a small glimpse into a much larger picture.

I agree with some of the folks that were talking about the love story element…yeah, babies come from the stork in the Myst Universe because let’s face it, the Myst Universe is about intellect, NOT about sex. (And I’m very happy about that in this day and age.) I know that sex sells and all, but well, it’s just not “Myst”.

My hope for the film is that it opens our universe up to folks who haven’t experienced it before. For a lot of people (unaware of any type of Myst Lore), I think the film will be a kind of “Myst Universe 101″ type of thing, really educating people about how fascinating the Myst Universe really is. So I think people eventually need to see a trailer that not only highlights story elements, but also inspire them to see the film by just blowing their minds with how visually stunning and complex BoT is. I mean just the scene where Anna goes from Irrat to the City by boat is just mind blowing on the page, so I can only imagine what it would look like on celluloid and there are tons and tons of great visual scenes similar to it in BoT. Here’s one more, looking into the well on Gemedet and seeing “Shorah” shine on the water.

These are the types of things I think would put backsides in the seats, because I want very much for not just us, the die-hard fans, to enjoy the film, but being the idealist I am, I would love nothing more than for the rest of the world to be inspired to take their first steps into a world that is just as intellectually rich as it is fun to play the computer games or read the books.

But then again, that’s just me of course.

All that being said guys, the animatic is wonderful, it warms my heart to see you guys have gotten this far. Keep on truckin’ fellas. You’re doing great!

I just noticed I posted the 99th post.

Man, that’s just NOT cool ><

“I agree with some of the folks that were talking about the love story element…yeah, babies come from the stork in the Myst Universe because let’s face it, the Myst Universe is about intellect, NOT about sex. (And I’m very happy about that in this day and age.) I know that sex sells and all, but well, it’s just not “Myst”.”
I think that what we’re really dealing with is the balance between moving the story forward and moving the characters forward. Focus too much on the story and the characters doesn’t get any depth, focus too much on the characters and the story grows pale. You can’t have one without the other. (Pretty obvious, I know.) I guess that what I’m really reacting on is that you said Myst is about intellect and I can’t disagree more with it. Yes, some people are clever but they still have and act on their feelings. Myst to me is the story of a family and the people they meet. Now it happens that the story brought Anna and Aitrus together and if that culminates in a *gasp* sex scene then I’m fine with it. They are married. The only thing that really debates having a sex scene is if it takes up too much time from the story since we already know they’re in love, on the other hand it can bring a new level of intimacy and tenderness to their relationship.
…aaand I think I just helped you all make a way too big deal out of this thing.

One of my dreams is coming into reality ! thanks guys Continue this movie project !

Yay! Thanks for allaying my fears Adrian, I am a happy fan once more.

No; they are the same cleft and shaft, and they are both in New Mexico.

Er, there’s no way the tunnel could lead from NM to ME, or even half-way between both (I’m only mentioning this because it’s been posited a couple of times), because Anna walked there!

Some nice job done here i applaud with respect.

Straight to the points:

1) Volcano issue….. http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/sci_volcanoes.html and look at the front cover of the advertised DVD on your left this is the cleft area !!

2) hand holding issue to represent that they were making love is not a problem at all infact it should be there to emphasize the romantic relation and love between anna and atrus as long as the final movie doesnt have to carry a “warning: this film contains content for adults only” tag on the cover.

3) Adrian you have a big audience and fan population in the middle east they just dont know where to go….myst was one of the most games played on 3do in Saudia Arabia and Kuwait when 3do and ps were first introduced. They will watch your movie too.

Adrian i do respect your words when you say, “In short, rest assured that this animatic is not by any means the end-all-be-all of our ideas, vision or intentions for the feature film. It is merely a rough glimpse into something far larger and far more epic in scope.”

5) music issue…… the music is fine but lacking the myst sense
specially the part from 240 secs. it feels like knights on horses fighting for freedom in some legend tale.

plz listen more to MYST 1 ingame music listen to exile and riven music to feel the difference try to listen to each and every instrument track playing and
blending to represent the mystery and descriptive features of each place and situation.

maybe the music used in the games especially for myst 1 was less professional it was more like midi instruments but it truly described each age in such a way that myst needs. Please be careful the soundtrack for myst is very sensetive dont loose the mood!!!

6) more details.. d’ni were not living in caves, mud houses, nor unevenly brick walls!!!
they changed these caves into an underground breath taking architecturally sculpted city and this was not resembled by the animatic.
concentrate a bit more on the scenerary details so that the movie does not turn into a blah blah, face close up, fictional social issue movie!!!!

Nek’rahm,
“My brother even went so far as to say that the entire animatic bored him. I thought he was off his rocker but I can understand it coming from someone who’s never read the Myst books.”

exactly what i was talking about in a previous post dont just go for the current MYST fans target everyone!!
Even who has never came across a banner that says MYST should be sucked into it.
in the sametime, satisfying for the most fanatics of myst.

sorry if i came down so hard but i really respect your peice of artwork i enjoyed it the effort and synchronization is very obvious. I was very enthusiazed by it “because i love myst” and waiting for something to pull me back into that world.

/me realizes he hasn’t breathed in over three minutes…. that was truly an incredible piece of work. Thank you.

I have just stumbled onto this wonderful place from seeing it on Just Adventure’s site. I watched the wonderful animatic, the DVD pitch to Cyan, read Rand’s encouraging forward and several of the postings on the various journal entries (that Michael Nelson thing was weird). I have been a fan of the Myst series since they first came out and I am very excited to see that talented, credible folks like Patrick and Adrian are moving forward with the movie project. Keep up the good work, keep the faith and persevere and your Myst cinematic “world” will become a reality.

I enjoyed this clip. I look forward to the live trailer.

WOW!!!
I was floored. It’s been awhile since I last read the book but it was like reading it again. Great job. Unlike some I looked at this video the way I’ve seen story boards for movies done. Only this was better because it was animated with voice over and music. To see a movie of the Myst books would indeed be a thrill. Good luck with this project.

Oh.
My.
WORD.
*jaw drop*
May your project be blessed, because you have GOT it.

*scrapes jaw off the ground*

Oooh I really can’t wait for this movie! I could see Ewan Mcgregor being cast as Aitrus, because his hairstyle and everything from Star Wars reminded me of Atrus’s. Hope you guys can get some great actors and can’t wait until this is released!

and the film is out tomorrow you say…?
I can’t wait, I just can’t wait!

I don’t think i could be any happier with what was presented. This is awesome.

the games were breathtaking in their beauty, so complex and intricate. the books….were fantastic. i read them in my pre/early teens. they were so well written, everything about the books was perfect, from covers and binding to paper and font selection, all of which contribute to a great read. they made me cry. they moved me and sparked my imagination like no other during that time in my life, and i have retained my deep fascination with them through the years. i cannot believe that The Book of Ti’Ana is finally going to be a movie. it was my favorite of the books, and the first one i read. i am overjoyed and impatient for it’s debut. good luck!

Wow, just amazing… I’ve been a reader all my life, and when I was 8-9 I read the Book of Atrus. My grandmother sent it to me, and since then, I’ve been hooked on the games and novels. So much so that in my screen-name I use everywhere, I use Veovis right alongside the name of Muad’dib. Both characters were great, and I would even go so far to say that Myst is begining to be comparable to Dune. This movie would definitely help, it looks amazing. If this is the early, years-old concept art, this could easily become one of my favourite movies of all time. I think that if enough time is spent fleshing out the characters while still getting the story across, this will be a huge success. I want to write more, but I’m afraid it would be brown-nosing to say any more of what I think.

On the topic of New Mexico vs. Middle East: I don’t care. Either one will work just fine. Camels have existed in both places, and aren’t integral to the story anyway. Since Uru is a good source for visuals, it will work just fine in New Mexico, and that way set design would be a bit more straightforward. But on the other hand, the name of the city and the name of Anna’s father’s employer, IIRC, sound more Middle Eastern. Yet, as counter to that, not much of the Middle East needed exploring- New Mexico did. We could go on for awhile, and either way would be fine by me, but were I to choose the location, I would go with New Mexico.

I enjoy acting, and I’m sure there are a number of Myst fans who do as well, so could we possibly have a mailing list set up so that anyone who wants to try out can sign up when they see this project and then be emailed when auditions occur? Unless you already have the cast lined up or almost so, but I’d pay to be even an extra in this movie.

Sorry to be late to the party, but I only just discovered this particular page. It’s been a while since I was on this site.

I am absolutely stunned. The book was heavy (in terms of the story line), but to see it visualized…..wow! If this gets made, it will easily blow all other game-based movies out of the water. But then, as it’s based on a book, it technically isn’t a game-based movie, is it? Heck, who cares? Just imagine what this could look like now that LOTR has been done. Kudos!

“Imagine…..the city as it appears in Uru, only better (notably, not ruined), on the big screen!!!”
Also bigger, filled with D’ni, more detailed, etc. (and in the process of being ruined! fun!)

Hello, penguindude515
Remember, this is just a trailer for a trailer that won’t even be used for the public anyway (if I understand them right). It is more for industry people to encourage them to join the project.

Well, “Book of Ti’ana” just sounds cool.

“One note: D’ni is pronounced ‘Daw-nee’ as atrus said it in the beginning of Riven. In the trailer you pronounced it ‘D-nee’.”
Isn’t Atrus’ pronunciation, especially in Myst/Riven considered the wrong way to pronounce it?
“Also, D’ni is a language that has been created and perhaps you have thought of this already, but in case you haven’t, it would do so much for the movie to have D’ni writing throughout.”
D’ni writing definitely, although I don’t know what to do if there is an important letter that would be easier to read in English. D’ni spoken should be English, though. Subtitles = just please no.

Maybe there is a right way to pronounce it and he said it wrong. I just figured, as penguindude said, since that’s the way Rand Miller pronounced it, it must be right.

And I agree Gloa that letters and the like should be english. subtitles would be tacky. I just meant if there was writing in the background throughout the movie, like on riven when you walk into the temple and there’s writing on the wall. Putting D’ni in the background would add so much interest for fans and make it that much more exciting to watch, especially for those who like to translate D’ni.

Hmm. Quite close to the book. But even speaking as a lifelong Myst fan (fan as in fanatic, who owns EVERY game, the novels, the coffee table Riven book, and more), I actually thought the Myst books were awful. The writing was bad, the characterization was poor, and even the world building — which should have been a primary attraction — felt dull. The books seemed churned out rather than the labor of love they needed to be (rather like the Halo novels, actually — is there a pattern?). I wonder of how much of the book is the work of the professional writer hired to get the story on paper. I’ve noticed that kind of dry writing a lot in “franchise” novels, where someone writes a book based on someone else’ idea. If the story isn’t completely the writer’s own, he often has trouble fully realizing it. The core concept was good, it was just the execution which was bad. Really it comes down to the books failing to make me care about the characters.

I’m willing to give this movie the benefit of the doubt, since I think the story could work if told in a new medium. But I do wonder what it was about this trailer that made Cyan take notice. It really doesn’t look that special. Maybe they were just so tired of everyone taking insane liberties with the story that they were ready to throw their support behind anyone who stayed true to it. Who knows?

Anyway, best of luck, and I hope the end result succeeds in realizing the potential inherent in the Myst stories.

Holy crap that was amazing.

Though I have to critique part of the script in the trailer:
“Anything that we may need or we desire… All we must do is imagine a place where it exists, and write it in one of these books, and it becomes real”

It doesn’t become real /= It creates a link between this world and a world somewhere in this universe, another universe, or even another time, where it exists.

Oh My GOODNESS!!!!!!!
I’ve been hoping for a Myst movie for years, and after reading the books, I had hoped even more for movies of them! ^oo^ There’s so much potential here and I can’t wait to see it! I just wish I could be in it. I love performing on stage, and if there’s ever any movie to be even an extra in, it’s this one. ^oo^ If you guys need actors or an extra writer (working on my English major), let me know!

Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooh boy. The cinematics looks so good I can’t wait to be seated in a theater, no popcorn so I don’t miss a thing, eyes riveted on the giant screen looking at the marvels of D’ni, the cleft, and the Great Shaft. You guys took on your shoulders a huge, most challenging task. I wish you all the best, and most of all I wish loads of fun. Any names in mind for the characters? Say, Brad Dourif as Veovis?

On the other hand, if Monty Python’s Eric Idle can make a stage play (Spamalot) from a movie (Monty Python and the Holy Grail) – instead of the other way around, I suppose anything’s possible.

And yes, I agree: too much of our culture has been dumbed-down. From Larry the Cable Guy (whose name isn’t Larry, and he doesn’t install cable) to Joe the Plumber (also neither), you have to wonder. (puts away soapbox) Anyways, I hope this movie can put some smarts back in the entertainment business.

That was awesome. If this movie ever makes it out you can be sure I’ll buy it. The book was really good.

On the other hand, keep in mind that Anna’s discovery takes place 200+ years before Uru or Myst V. Things tend to deteriorate over time….

Is this movie real, I am sorry to ask, but there is nothing about it on IMDB.com, usually when a movie is in production or pre-production it will be posted up on the database, but there is not even a mention of a movie for myst.

OMG. I was just talking about how we must have a Myst movie. This movie would be like Peter Jackson huge. Seriously, If I had the money, I would give it all to you so you could make this movie. I love all the books. Amazing. They changed my life.
You have something great. I look forward to seeing more from you. Don’t give up!

OH MY FRIGGEN GOBSTOPPER!!! That is absolutely fantastic. This is will be epic and sit along side Harry Potter and LOR as one of the best movies of all times.. No matter how long it takes or how much we need to bare.. EPIC!!!!

Hi there, I’m another fan from Spain and I just got AMAZED about this!
We will wait, no matter how much time it takes, I want to see it, even more than once or twice if it reaches the cinema, or the DVD…
At last, the best book imo, Book of Ti’Ana…
congrats!!!!

“please make a full movie series with all the myst games in too movies”
-
To adapt the Myst games into movies, they would have to make a lot of changes. The games are made to be fairly nonlinear (that is, there is generally no set order for puzzles, so you can solve them at any time you want), based around physical puzzles, and with a faceless protagonist (which allows each player to “be” the Stranger, and not to just be ordering around some character). Movies have to be mostly linear – there is one plot, and one order that the movie goes in. They also don’t work well with puzzles. Puzzles are made to be solved by the player, not to be watched by an audience (some people wouldn’t have a clue what the puzzle was when the characters solved it, and some people would have solved it and gotten bored way before the characters even figured out what to do). Putting some character in for the Stranger would remove the personal feel of the games. It would be almost impossible to make a good movie with that (although they make excellent games).
-
Thats why the Mysteriacs are adapting the books. These were meant to be linear, they have set plots and no faceless characters. They are based on actions, speeches, and characters… all things that can be shown well on a screen.
-
Some of the backstory of the games is also linear and would adapt fairly well (Gehn’s control of Riven, the brother’s rampage in Myst, Saavedro’s Exile in Myst III). If any one set of backstory stories fit in a coherent and moving plot, then perhaps movies could be made off that.
-

First off, it looks awesome. I have pllayed all the games and read all the books, and what can I say? I love it! Secondly, that really wierded me out because I just watched Tears of the Sun again today, and suddenly the music just started playing in the trailer lol. Strange things just happen.

Honestly, I can’t wait for this to happen. The only thing I would request is that if you guys are planning a sex scene between Aitrus and Anna (that’s what it looked like in the trailer to me), please just ditch it. It’s so not Myst. Myst has been so clean so far. Please don’t ruin it now.

Can’t wait! *dances*

Wow-looks like you guys have real potential to make this happen!! I have loved the Myst series ever since I played the first game as a high schooler. I crazily enough am just finishing up playing Myst V (seeing as this is the first time I’ve had the technology available to play it).

This movie has potential to become an epic film. The book has all the makings of what you need to have a great story. Betrayal, lies, hate, bias, and the overcoming of these things. It would be great if this takes off, is highly successful, and you are able to make a trilogy of the books. Trilogies seem to be the thing in the 21st century The Book of Atrus is one I’d really like to see as well. But step by step though, eh?

I’m glad someone has the dream and talent and ability to get this off the ground. Sounds like it’ll be a long, hard path but one that will be well worth it!

PS I hope you don’t go “hollywood” and put unnecessary sex scenes in it (just based off the picture that was shown). The books didn’t have that, neither did the games, and I think it would take away from the film. Implied isn’t really too bothersome but showing such scenes just in my view is poor taste.

Anyway, I am fully supportive of a Myst movie and I guarantee you if this happens I will be one of the first in line to see the movie

Ok, just watched the trailer… well, please take this the right way: I have loved MYST and the music; however, watching this trailer, it just feels like there is a very, very long way to go to even get off the ground. I understand this is a grass-roots, beginning-of-the-line effort.

There is a good beginning here, but…

The narration is overworked and lacks subtlety; there really is no need for all the explanation, even to an audience unfamiliar with the series. SUBTLETY, PEOPLE. And if something unique is to be done with the movie, the cliches need to be kept to a minimum.

Personally, I found nothing particularly inspiring here. I know I’ll take heat for it, but hell – having expectations of feeling the wonder of playing the games, then seeing the dialog-heavy animatic with so little feeling of the games… and – what? – none of the music?

What I see here is a lot of potential, but a lot of blandness. Sorry, that’s just how I see it for now.

Also, I get the sepia, but let’s move on – a little judicious use of color goes a long way.

Fingers crossed.

I…..wow. I’m going to go lie down now, there is too much joy flying around my head. When I saw the words ‘Myst Movie’ I thought oh no, they’ll ruin the franchise. I have never been so happy to be so wrong.

Hi, as you can see this is my first post here.
In first steps it’s very nice if somebody supports you, so hope to meet friendly and helpful people here. Let me know if I can help you.
Thanks in advance and good luck!

Yes, so this is pretty much the coolest thing ever. You are totally right – the book of Ti’anna has fantastic epic fantasy drama potential. And you are also right in your choice to make Aitrus defend her loudly and sooner in a 120 minute adaption. It makes the drama arc much cleaner.

Hans Zimmer is such an incredible emotional composer. It is absolutely imperative that he does the actual score for this film. If you can’t get him, I would be glad to help if you need any piano music! ha (no… seriously)

Myst is the reason I’ve devoted my life to writing. The games and stories shaped my childhood — my life. To see it come to life could truly be one of the greatest experiences ever. Best of luck, filmmakers! Do this production justice!

Wow…. I can’t wait for this movie. You guys are awesome for coming up with the idea.
This will ultimately be a bigger seller than Twilight!!!!
I can’t wait to see this!!!!! GOOD JOB GUYS!

Thanks for sharing men…