Updates and News

10-1-2002

Hello Everyone,

Sorry it's been so long since my last update. I can't believe it's been a year and a half. Major apologies and I sincerely appreciate your patience and continued interest. There have been a lot of wonderful changes this past year.

First, I regret to say that I've officially resigned from Star Wars. It was a very difficult decision since I've been with the Lucas companies for over 13 years with nearly seven of those years dedicated solely to Star Wars. After my work was completed on Episode II, I started taking on other opportunities to stretch and push my skills. Those opportunities eventually became too exciting and wonderful to turn away. However, if my schedule allows I'm hoping to contribute some designs for Episode III.

I'm now very happy to say that I am committed full time to The Polar Express, the film based on the Chris Van Allsburg book. This project really caught my attention and is one of the most exciting and ambitious films that I've had the privilege to work on. The Polar Express will definitely push me to the next level and I'm looking forward to working with some old friends as well.

In addition, earlier this year I worked on my first computer game, designing over 27 spaceships for Electronic Arts Westwood Studio's online extravaganza Earth and Beyond. Then, I worked on Matrix 3 which was fantastic for me since I'm a big fan of the first film.

On the Robota front, the book is now finished and scheduled to be published for Fall of 2003. Originally, I was hoping for release this year but I had to change publishers due to unforeseen circumstances. I'm now back on track with a new publisher, Chronicle Books of San Francisco. I'm very excited about working with Chronicle again and feel fortunate that they are publishing the book. Furthermore, novelist Orson Scott Card wrote the final text for me and, needless to say, elevated the book to another level.

I'm also very pleased to announce the near completion of a new two minute fully animated CG teaser for Robota. For the past year, I've been working with Sparx, the award winning French animation and visual effects company, to produce this teaser. We are now in the final stages of editing and sound mixing so please check back soon for the premiere.

Until then, thanks for visiting.

Doug
10/1/02

Previous Update

5-17-2001