What does one get by combining great science with captivating storytelling? 

My name is James Maynard, and I grew up around the space program, with a love for both entertainment and education, as well as a passion for technology and entertainment.

For the last few years, a small group of talented people and I have been developing The Cosmic Companion , a (nearly) weekly video series examining serious science through laughter and narration bookending fun, friendly, interviews with some of the greatest scientists, authors, and developers around the globe.

The Cosmic Companion leverages the magnificent power of generative artificial intelligence to democratize filmmaking, drastically lowering production costs for films. Merged with tried-and-true filmmaking techniques, these technologies may be the most important advance in filmmaking since the invention of the movie camera. 

Now, we are thrilled to introduce you to our groundbreaking project, Gaia Rising, a film set at the heart of one of the most-important issues of our time, global climate change. 

Gaia Rising presents a gripping tale of resilience, redemption, and the urgent fight against climate change in the 21st century, as three lives intertwine, shaping the fate of humanity. This deeply engaging, very human story, developed as an AI-powered feature film, explores the intersection of technology, humanity, and climate change around the world. 

Ana Luisa, a driven advertising executive, is forced to tear herself away from her beloved city, as Manhattan starts to flood. In Kenya, Wathaika (Wati), a determined farmer, battles against a devastating drought that plunges his family into poverty. Meanwhile, in Wyoming, Bill Sawyer, a climate change denier, finds his beliefs crumbling under the weight of an escalating climate crisis. As these three disparate lives converge, Gaia Rising unveils a powerful narrative of hope, determination, and human connection against the backdrop of a world in turmoil.

View our award-winning first trailer for Gaia Rising:

A proven track record of success

Our journey began with a vision to revolutionize both film and education. Over the last few years, our team has consistently delivered a delightful, well-reviewed half-hour long show. We believe in the transformative power of storytelling and the potential of artificial intelligence to create immersive, impactful narratives. Gaia Rising is our bold step towards this future.

The film is a tale of resilience, adaptation, and the indomitable human spirit, brought to life through cutting-edge AI technology and a gripping storyline.

James G. Maynard has played classical and modern roles on stage, television and commercials. He has also been a student and actor in multiple improvisation and acting classes, and has completed more than a dozen online MasterClasses in theater, acting, directing, and filmmaking taught by some of the greatest names in the field, including Samuel L. Jackson, Jodie Foster, and Ron Howard. 

We’re proud to share that the first trailer for Gaia Rising is already making waves, winning accolades at film festivals and award shows around the globe. This early success underscores the potential of our project and the impact it can have on audiences worldwide.

Leveraging AI to Dramatically Reduce Costs

Using the same tools and techniques which have become a staple on our show and in our short films, Gaia Rising replaces location shots and physical sets with virtual backdrops, voices, and characters, driven by artificial intelligence. With our own in-house studio, characters, sets, VFX, SFX, music, and more can be developed for little time or money.  

Generative artificial intelligence will revolutionize filmmaking and education in just a few years. And these technologies are our opportunity to remake the industry through the work of tens of millions of creators, spread around the globe, democratizing filmmaking. 

Ana Luisa Cortez Talks about Gaia Rising

One of our three protagonists, Ana Luisa, talks about the upcoming film, Gaia Rising:

Gaia Rising Preliminary Budget

Associate Director: $1800 - $150 / mth
Production Costs (VFX/SFX, most handled in-house): $3,600 $300/month
Promotional and Advertising Costs: $1,500
Music Costs: $1,800 - $150/month
AI Fees ($100/month for 12 months): $1,200 - $100/mth
Processing Fees (10% of Total Budget): $1,250
Project Cost Overrun (10% of Total Budget): $1,250

This may change over time, particularly if we incorporate live voices in the animation. Hardware, software, and all needed supplies are already available and operational, making startup costs negligible. 

 

Joining with us, advancing technology and healing the planet

But to bring this vision to life, we need your support. Your contribution will go directly towards the production costs of the film, including state-of-the-art AI technology, a talented cast and crew, and post-production. Every dollar brings us one step closer to sharing Gaia Rising with the world.

Wow! Rewards!

In return for your generosity, we’re offering exclusive rewards to our supporters, including VIP subscriptions to The Cosmic Companion newsletter (behind-the-scenes content and outtakes), premiere screenings and advance viewings, a chance to participate in focus groups for the film, and even a chance for an executive producer credit!

Gaia's Whisper - $25 - Each whisper can begin a gale: Invitations to advance screenings and focus groups, Invitation to official private premiere of Gaia Rising. 

Gaia's Voice - $100 - Earth speaks aloud: Everything from Gaia's Whisper plus a one-year VIP Subscription to The Cosmic Companion Newsletter (a $50 value), and your name in the ending credits! 

Gaia's Song - $250 - Hearing Earth sing: Everything above, plus an invitation to periodic online updates from James G. Maynard and occasional special guests, plus your VIP Subscription to The Cosmic Companion Newsletter is yours for as long as we put out the publication (a $150 value)!

Gaia's Light (Executive Producer) - $5000 - Everything above, PLUS your name in the OPENING CREDITS AS EXECUTIVE PRODUCER of the film, addition to our IMDB Page, and the opportunity for awards and additional publicity. Limited to two spots. 

By supporting Gaia Rising, you’re not just funding a film; you’re investing in the future of storytelling. You’re joining us in our mission to leverage AI to educate, inspire, and drive action on climate change. You are the heroes of this story, and together, we can make Gaia Rising a reality.

Thank you for considering a contribution to Gaia Rising. Together, we can reimagine the film and education fields and make a lasting impact on our planet.

Let's make this happen! 

James