Local Animator Debuts Film at Chabot Theatre
Ten animators used computers to hand-draw 24,000 frames for “Orens Way.” The project took three and a half years to finish.
When she was young, Keika Lee was smitten by Disney’s 1950 animated classic “Cinderella.” This Sunday, the Castro Valley native is debuting her own hand-drawn animated film, “Oren’s Way,” at The Chabot Theater.
The event on June 11 will entail the screening of the 17-minute film, a panel interview, and a meet-and-greet with the animator, in addition to free popcorn, drinks, and autographed posters.
“Oren’s Way” is about a clever princess who must capture a magical golden fox to save her kingdom from eternal sadness. On her journey, she conquers obstacles, the last of which reveals a hidden truth about herself. The film draws inspiration from filmmaker and Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki, who produced “Spirited Away” and “My Neighbor Totoro.”
“I wanted to make a film about a strong female character that fights for her own identity and finds her own truth and happiness. The film needed to have several surprises and a cute animal for the kids,” Lee told the Forum.
Lee grew up in Castro Valley when her family moved here in 1989. After high school, she attended The Academy of Art College in San Francisco and later worked at DreamWorks Animation, where she managed teams of 3D modelers on productions of “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa” and “Megamind.”
In 2017, she started her own animation studio, Greyscale, named for Lee's love of silent film. Her first production, “Odd Dog,” was based on her son's close relationship with his cat—who acts like a dog—and how they became best friends.
Ten animators used computers to hand-draw 24,000 frames for “Orens Way.” The animators were given storyboards and instructions on what Lee wanted to do for each shot. The project took three and a half years to finish.
“Hand-drawn animation is special. There’s nothing like it still,” Lee says. “It brings a lot of personality and emotion to every line that is crafted. Also, it emotes a lot of nostalgia to those who grew up watching old Disney movies.”
Lee adds that she’s submitted “Oren’s Way” in other film festivals, but she is excited to debut it for her hometown audience.
“If this girl from a small town can make a big dream come true, then anybody can,” Lee says.