franchise

ZEBRA

  • SCIENCE FICTION
  • : :
  • APOCALYPSE PUNK
  • : :
  • TEEN DRAMA
The cosmic game begins, and the fate of humankind hangs in the balance.

Story arc

It’s 2050. In Ethiopia, brutally exploited by the space industry, the last zebra to live in the wild is dying. An asteroid approaching Mars’ orbit has been named in its honor – it’s humanity’s last chance for survival.

Astronauts must send the zebra to the edge of the solar system to change the Unicorn’s trajectory or let it strike the Moon in seven years. To save every inhabitant of Earth, all bets are off in a cosmic billiards game that requires a fearless crew, a fiery friendship, and a rebellion.

When a blind streamer from Ethiopia joins the cosmic mission to report on saving the Earth, she discovers its dirty secret: as a consequence of Earth’s rescue, half of humanity will face a horrible death. Kinfe, along with a group of young astronauts who become her new family, must fight for the future of humankind against an invisible villain.
Franchise concept
Franchise concept

APOCALYPSE PUNK

epic teen-drama taking us on a captivating and cautionary space adventure

Sakuga in Unreal engine

To expand on character backstories and explore side stories, a series of webcomics and graphic novels can be released in conjunction with the animated series.

Colours of the Cosmos

One day, they were all early-stage entertainment IP assets. Just not available to the public. Now, picture this for stories from non-mainstream markets. The talented, undiscovered.

Grounded in science

Every technology featured in the story already exists in the blueprints of scientists and in the imaginations of real space science enthusiasts.

Franchise concept

While Zebra will initially launch as an animated series, its potential for transmedia storytelling is vast. By creating interconnected narratives across various platforms, the Zebra universe can engage audiences in multiple ways and deepen their connection to the story and its characters.

The franchise will appeal to style enthusiasts, particularly fans of anime and high-quality animation. The incorporation of sakuga-style animation and visually stunning artwork will attract those who appreciate dynamic, meticulously crafted visuals. Collaborations with renowned artists can elevate the series’ aesthetic appeal, engaging art lovers and animation fans alike.

This can include webcomics and graphic novels that delve into character backstories, interactive video games allowing fans to partake in cosmic missions, and augmented reality experiences that bring the story to life in their own environments. Podcasts and audio dramas can offer behind-the-scenes insights, while social media initiatives can encourage fan art, creative writing, and cosplay, creating a vibrant community. Additionally, hosting virtual events and workshops can further strengthen fan relationships. By integrating user-generated content and interactive elements, Zebra can cultivate a rich, immersive universe that keeps audiences invested in its story across multiple channels.
inspired by

Fans of Final Space, players of Kerbal Space Program and followers of Neil deGrasse Tyson will enjoy this content as if it were made for them.

Final Space

Our solar system is full of colors, though they are not always easy to see. Zebra is the story of a cosmic journey, with each episode featuring a color palette inspired by how planets reflect light.

Kerbal Space Programme

A highly refined sequence of complex motion animation found in most anime productions, allows Zebra’s story to be driven by dynamic movement. Each episode will be crafted with densely cut sakuga sequences.

Neil DeGrasse Tyson

We will utilize Unreal Engine, essential for creating realistic character animations through motion capture, enhanced by natural physical lighting and atmospheric effects. These elements will be filtered through a painterly approach to textures and materials, with comic-like expressive anatomy.

Audience

The audience for Zebra is primarily appealing to young adults and teens who resonate with relatable protagonists navigating challenges and discovering their identities. The scientifically grounded narrative, which explores themes of friendship, rebellion, and courage, will attract science fiction enthusiasts interested in space exploration and futuristic technologies. The potential for transmedia expansion into gaming platforms like Roblox and Fortnite will draw in gamers who appreciate interactive experiences and user-generated content. Families and educators will also find value in the series due to its educational elements and themes of environmental conservation, making it an engaging resource for teaching important social issues.

Meet the team
shaping this world

In the heart of a sprawling creative complex, a revolution in science fiction is taking shape led by experience animation directors.

Jakub Jabłoński – Worldbuilding Director / Animation Director

Maciej Rebisz – Concept Artist & Art Director

3RD UNIT – IP development launchpad

The unique blend of compelling storytelling and original visuals will not only draw in a dedicated fan base but also create opportunities for enriching the Zebra universe as a franchise.

Animated film series

ZEBRA’s story translates well into animation, using sakuga-style sequences and Unreal Engine to depict realistic space environments and character interactions

Audio stories

An audio adaptation can focus on the tension and drama of the mission, using strong voice acting and immersive sound design to bring the story’s atmosphere to life.

Mobile games

A mobile game could let players take on space missions, make critical decisions, and engage with the story’s themes through interactive gameplay.

ZEBRA is currently in pre-production

3RD UNIT is actively working with the creators of ZEBRA to scope-out and bring to market a digital assets co-ownership framework. This might still take a while! Join our EARLY ADOPTERS programme to be first in the queue.
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