That Is NOT a Good Idea: Short film

Short film based on the book by Mo Willems
Package cover: That Is NOT a Good Idea! Director/animator – Pete List
Produced by Paul R. Gagne and Mo Willems                                     Weston Woods Studios, 2015

Pete List animates and directs this Mo Willems story.  The fox invites the seemingly naive goose for a stroll.  The music and frames are reminiscent of the silent film era with the damsel in distress as the goose and the fox as the villain.  The goslings appear and warn the reader that the actions of the goose and the fox are “NOT a good idea!” Cher Willems is the voice of the goose and Mo Willems the voice of the fox.

  • Appropriate target audience: Children ages 4-8

 

  • Strengths: Because the book is laid out as a silent film, it seems a natural and necessary next step to create a short film.  The music matches the silent film era and enhances the book. The goslings popping up and talking is also an added bonus.

 

  • Weaknesses: It is written in a silent film style and by adding voices it detracts from that concept.

 

  • Meaningful/creative uses: Have a film festival for several Carnegie Award winners.  Then have the kids make their own short films and watch those.  There could be popcorn and a red carpet.  Take pictures celebrity style in front of a backdrop with the library’s name on it.

 

  • Awards: The Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Children’s Video, 2016