Glen Keane News & Discussion

[Sotiris]

New poster and trailer for "Over the Moon".


Source: https://ew.com/movies/netflix-over-the-moon-trailer/


Soundtrack.


Source: https://overthemoon.lnk.to/otm

[Farerb]

I'm sorry to say that after seeing this trailer I'm not that excited anymore. I'll still watch it and I'll form my opinion only after then, but that trailer kind of turned me off.

[nomad2010]

I'm sorry to say that after seeing this trailer I'm not that excited anymore. I'll still watch it and I'll form my opinion only after then, but that trailer kind of turned me off.

Same. I was very excited for this. Hoped it would sort of be an Chinese-fable Little Nemo in Slumberland. But this popstar Moon Goddess thing is a complete turn off for me. Not only is it terribly corny, but I feel like we’ve seen this 100x over. The design of the city and such is incredible. And I’m sure it’ll have a good heart, but... wow I’m disappointed right now.

[Farerb]

Yes, that pop song just threw me off, I thought it's going to be a "musical" musical and I sort of thought that while earth would be modern day, the moon would be more "timeless" fantasy and here it sort of already looked outdated. I also didn't care for the comedy, especially with the seal...creature.

Now my hope is that this woman won't turn out to be a twist villain in the end.

[Sotiris]

I get why people are disappointed. The film feels more like your average Western kiddie animated flick and less like an epic fantasy film with mythological/supernatural elements that a lot of us prefer. The wrapping paper may be Chinese, but the gift is still the same American product. If you want something more authentically Chinese, I suggest checking out Jiang Ziya that's coming to select theaters on October 1st.

[Sotiris]

But this popstar Moon Goddess thing is a complete turn off for me. Not only is it terribly corny, but I feel like we’ve seen this 100x over.

One of the songwriters for the film, Helen Park, also wrote the songs for KPOP: The Musical. So, either she was hired because the creative team wanted that Asian pop element from the start or her previous work experience and interests influenced the story and the approach of this musical.

Now my hope is that this woman won't turn out to be a twist villain in the end.

Not to burst your bubble, but it's already pretty clear she's the villain.

[estefan]

I love that Netflix is putting Glen Keane's name all over the advertising. No, most of the general public probably aren't aware of who he is, but it shows a lot of respect to put his name front and centre.

I feel animation directors would be more recognised among moviegoers if their names were highlighted in the marketing materials. Even "Tomorrowland" advertised itself as coming "from the director of The Incredibles and Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol" with no mention of who said director was.

The only animated films I can think of that mentioned the director by name in the trailers are Ice Age, Gnomeo & Juliet and ones directed by well-known live-action directors (Rango, for example). Hayao Miyazaki's name is also featured prominently in the American trailers of his recent films.

[Disney's Divinity]

I can understand the enthusiasm drag in response to that trailer, but I'm still excited. The green sidekick creature reminds me of Dug from Up combined with the dog from Ferdinand.

[estefan]

And honestly, American trailers for animated movies almost always emphasize the overtly comedic elements over dramatic scenes, because they're trying to attract the attention of families who respond to that sort of material, not adult animation fans.

[Disney's Divinity]

I was actually thinking of saying something similar last night when I posted, but I was lazy. I'm giving Keane a chance that the advertisements aren't completely representative of the film itself, sort of like the commercials for Laika films have made me expect something horrible ahead of time only to be proved wrong. A lot of animated films try to present themselves as Dreamworks-y to get people to pay attention; this trailer reminded me of that Rihanna-Jim Parsons alien movie from a couple years ago. Except less annoying and more visually impressive.

[D82]

Some updates on Over the Moon:

International poster


Source: http://www.impawards.com/tv/over_the_moon_ver3.html


Images of the cast and their respective characters


Source:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CFKuTuojU-2/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CFSLnslDT6k/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CFfCbk0jfAo/


Merchandise

http://www.youloveit.com/books/1511-ove ... books.html
http://www.youloveit.com/dolls/1137-mat ... -2020.html
http://www.youloveit.com/dolls/1451-ove ... attel.html


New details about Chang'e from a doll description

Chang'e, the Moon Goddess, is the source and light of Lunaria, the magical city that exists on the moon.

Titles of the film's songs

I'll put it in spoilers just in case. There are seven songs and two reprises. On this link you can also find the titles of the score tracks.

1. "On the Moon Above" - Ruthie Ann Miles, John Cho, Cathy Ang
2. "Mooncakes" - Ruthie Ann Miles; John Cho, Cathy Ang
3. "Rocket to the Moon" - Cathy Ang
4. "Rocket to the Moon (Reprise)" - Cathy Ang
5. "Ultraluminary" - Phillipa Soo
6. "Hey Boy" - Phillipa Soo, Robert Chiu
7. "Wonderful" - Ken Jeong, Cathy Ang
8. "Yours Forever (Reprise)" - Phillipa Soo, Conrad Ricamora
9. "Love Someone New" - Phillipa Soo, Cathy Ang


Music video for the Korean version of "Rocket to the Moon"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_cont ... =emb_title

There are more international versions of the song on this Youtube playlist.

[Farerb]

Thank you D82.
So the mother and father just don't have names?
I'm glad Phillipa Soo has many songs.

So I had this theory that what Fei Fei really wants is her mother back and Chang'e wants her one true love back, but obviously that won't be possible and that's probably what they'll learn in the end but they'll realize that they can have each other now and I think the title of the last song pretty much suggests that. We'll see.

P.S: Yours Forever is a reprise without an actual song.

[D82]

So the mother and father just don't have names?

So it seems. The grandpa, grandma and uncle don't have names either, though that's not so strange given that they're probably more secondary.

I'm glad Phillipa Soo has many songs.

Me too. I didn't think she would have so many.

So I had this theory that what Fei Fei really wants is her mother back and Chang'e wants her one true love back, but obviously that won't be possible and that's probably what they'll learn in the end but they'll realize that they can have each other now and I think the title of the last song pretty much suggests that. We'll see.

That sounds quite likely. The last trailer made it seem Chang'e would be the villain, and I think she will be a bit villainous, but I have a feeling they'll redeem her at the end. First, because I don't think they would dare turn such a famous and beloved character in Chinese culture evil, and second, the fact that she has several songs including that last duet with the protagonist seems to suggest that as well.

P.S: Yours Forever is a reprise without an actual song.

Yeah, I found that strange too. I think it might be a reprise of "On the Moon Above", the first song, which is sung by the Fei Fei and her parents and is probably like a lullaby about the tale of the Moon Goddess. My guess is that that reprise, which is sung by Chang'e and her loved one, has the same melody but different lyrics and that's why it has a different title despite being a reprise. We'll see. It could also be a typo. After all, Glen Keane said there would be eight songs in the movie and in that tracklist there are only seven.

[Sotiris]

Music video for the Korean version of "Rocket to the Moon".

There's some new footage in that music video.

There are more international versions of the song on this Youtube playlist.

Thanks for sharing that playlist! As someone who loves the song, it's great getting to hear it in different languages.

The grandpa, grandma and uncle don't have names either, though that's not so strange given that they're probably more secondary.

Even so, they should have given them names. I hate it when characters go unnanmed in fiction. Just pick a name; it's not that hard.

The last trailer made it seem Chang'e would be the villain, and I think she will be a bit villainous, but I have a feeling they'll redeem her at the end. First, because I don't think they would dare turn such a famous and beloved character in Chinese culture evil, and second, the fact that she has several songs including that last duet with the protagonist seems to suggest that as well.

That's a good point. I also think she will be redeemed at the end for the reasons you stated and discover the true meaning of love/how to cope with loss, mirroring in this way Fei Fei's emotional journey.

I think it might be a reprise of "On the Moon Above", the first song, which is sung by the Fei Fei and her parents and is probably like a lullaby about the tale of the Moon Goddess. My guess is that that reprise, which is sung by Chang'e and her loved one, has the same melody but different lyrics and that's why it has a different title despite being a reprise.

That's a good guess. Still, they could have given it a different title without calling it a reprise, if that was the case. You can't call something a reprise when there's no full song with the same name. That's madness!

After all, Glen Keane said there would be eight songs in the movie and in that tracklist there are only seven.

Is it possible the song "Yours Forever" was cut and only the reprise survived?

[D82]

It seems there has been a virtual premiere of Over the Moon for critics. Here are some of the first reactions. They all seem quite positive.

Just finished screening Netflix new movie, "OVER THE MOON."

As an Asian-American, I think it's wonderful that "Mulan" and "Warrior" season 2 and "Over The Moon" all arrive in the same season.

More please! More!

Source: https://twitter.com/RamasScreen/status/ ... 0370021376

just watched #OverTheMoon and it is one of the most beautiful and stunning animated films I’ve ever seen. Congrats! @NetflixFilm

Source: https://twitter.com/andrewfreund/status ... 1182296064

#OverTheMoon was exceptional! With vibrant animation and a storyline that focuses on family coming together, this is an absolute must-see. It’s heartwarming and funny w/ musical numbers that you’ll want stuck in your head. I truly loved this film.

Source: https://twitter.com/shannon_mcgrew/stat ... 4932272128

#OverTheMoon a luscious, colorful experience full of eye-popping visuals that will captivate all. Review coming soon.

#OverTheMoon will certainly be a major contender in original song and best animated feature. The visuals alone will leave you swooning.

Source: https://twitter.com/Deweysmovies/status ... 6739441664

Two huge thumbs up for Glen Keane's OVER THE MOON. Gorgeously animated with a cavalcade of wonderful original songs, it's incredibly entertaining and so damn heartwarming. Phillipa Soo steals the show. Netflix has a mighty strong contender for Best Animated Feature.

Source: https://twitter.com/itsdougjam/status/1 ... 5142023168

Great, I’m going to have “Ultraluminary” stuck in my head for the rest of the day.

Source: https://twitter.com/awards_watch/status ... 4140997632

#OverTheMoon is a dazzling, grand, sweet-spirited animated adventure. Songs are Disney-esque with catchy musicality and potent lyrics about heartfelt longings. Holds poignancy about love, family & overcoming grief. Cathy Ang, Phillipa Soo & Ken Jeong are standouts. Yeah, I cried.

Source: https://twitter.com/Lulamaybelle/status ... 7531722753

Over the Moon is a shoo-in for a Best Animated Film nomination. An absolutely gorgeous film about loss and moving on. The animation is breathtaking and the soundtrack is fantastic but what got me the most was how emotionally powerful the story is. Loved this film.

Source: https://twitter.com/ScottDMenzel/status ... 4670314496

#OverTheMoon is mesmerizing animation, beautiful music, & a touching story of loss & grief. Truly a stunning animated film that sets itself apart from the rest. It captures something so undoubtedly difficult to put into words & guides us through to the joy on the other side.

Source: https://twitter.com/AshleyGMenzel/statu ... 9561136129

#OverTheMoon is a beautiful, touching musical with gorgeous animation. It's a delightful film exploring the power of love, family, and life. My inner science nerd was geeking out! Phillipa Soo voicing the moon goddess? Oh, yeah!

Source: https://twitter.com/rosasreviews/status ... 1460192256

#OverTheMoon is a beautifully rendered tale exploring grief and moving on. Pearl Studio crafted amazing animation sequences, creating whole new worlds for both children and adults to explore. And the musical elements will make you want to listen to them on repeat again and again.

What makes it even more impactful is knowing that the screenwriter Audrey Wells wrote it sort of as a message to her daughter for when she was gone. Grieving can be a difficult, almost cyclic process and she captured that experience perfectly in #OverTheMoon

Source: https://twitter.com/sarahmusnicky/statu ... 4551901184

The rabbit in Netflix’s #OverTheMoon : I would like one.

Seriously though: #OverTheMoon is so lovely and gorgeous and, of course, it made me cry. It starts streaming next month.

Source: https://twitter.com/patriciakar/status/ ... 3563746307

Grief and loss are always tough subjects to deal with, but #OverTheMoon handles it with grace and a joyful range of colors and light. Can't wait to see what Pearl Studios comes up with next.

Source: https://twitter.com/PacManNR7/status/13 ... 7414985729

Just streamed new animation #overthemoon from #netflix I love the dinner scenes from the movie . They captured pretty correctly. Many families from southern China eat river crabs for moon festival ! The music is beautifully done . I found myself can’t stop crying towards the end.

Source: https://twitter.com/MaggieMa_LA/status/ ... 1752732672

Over The Moon is a visual treat, full of heart and solid musical numbers. Netflix will surely be in the Animated Feature race with #OverTheMoon, and likely in contention for an Original Song nomination too. The entire family can enjoy this emotional delight.

Source: https://twitter.com/JoeyMagidson/status ... 4800867332

Netflix’s #OverTheMoon is a visual and storytelling delight. The animation, soundtrack and world building is gorgeous. Phillipa Soo plays a pop star moon princess that also raps during a ping pong match. It definitely could be a major Animated Feature and Original Song contender.

Source: https://twitter.com/cwj92movieman/statu ... 3261283331

#OverTheMoon is a visual delight. The animation is gorgeous and the storytelling exceeded all expectations. It is a beauty of a story. Phillipa Soo fans are in for a treat. Cathy Ang is remarkable. Netflix has an animated feature contender on its hands. Tissues required

Also, Phillipa Soo singing Ultraluminary is a jam!!!

Source: https://twitter.com/jazzt/status/1310044448512905218

It’s safe to say that I probably don’t have any tears left for today. #OverTheMoon was an absolutely beautiful film focusing on the immense pain of grief and the true power of family. The film has a great chance in regards to awards: direction, score, writing - I’m in awe!

Source: https://twitter.com/thefilmnerdette/sta ... 1966749696

Watched #OverTheMoon tonight and all I’ll say is I stan Phillipa Soo as a pop star moon goddess!

Source: https://twitter.com/kaymaldo/status/1310059395074732032

OVER THE MOON has classic, Disney-style elements merged with a very contemporary pop sensibility and steeped in Chinese culture and lore. Gorgeous animation and voice and makes me want moon cakes and hairy crab. Oh, it’s also a full on musical.

Source: https://twitter.com/awards_watch/status ... 4140997632

Congrats to Janet Yang, Pearl, @Netflix, and rookie director Glen Keane (who animated Disney’s Tarzan and Ariel), for fantasy musical Over the Moon. Likely Oscar nods for animated feature & song (Rocket to the Moon) for this Chinese fairy tale/space epic.

Source: https://twitter.com/akstanwyck/status/1 ... 7273260032

Just saw the press premiere of Netflix’s animated musical “Over The Moon. “ While I can’t say much about it before it opens, I can’t get the beautiful songs out of my head especially Cathy Ang’s “Rocket To The Moon.”

Source: https://twitter.com/combs_lana/status/1 ... 4561442816

A joy attending @AmericanFilm's special presentation of @Netflix's upcoming Animated Feature OVER THE MOON (dir: @GlenKeanePRD), in time to ring-in Mid-Autumn Festival! A beautiful meditation about life, grief and beyond. Stunning visuals and song. Review to come 10/9/20!

Source: https://twitter.com/mrwillw/status/1310050151705251840

Dear @NetflixFilm,

I do NOT appreciate being turned into a bubbling mess at home in front of my children. They don't need to see a man torn to pieces by the beauty & spirit of OVER THE MOON. Glen Keane, you are equally responsible. Dope musical numbers though.

Best,
Me
#Oscars

Source: https://twitter.com/AwardsCircuit/statu ... 9533615105

Legend Glen Keane’s directorial debut OVER THE MOON is an incredible visual feast for the eyes. It brilliantly blends Chinese mythology and contemporary setting to tell a timely tale of loss. It’s a riveting animated musical feature that’s sure to soar through awards season.

Source: https://twitter.com/Rendy_Jones/status/ ... 0688591874

[Sotiris]

Phillipa Soo plays a pop star moon princess that also raps during a ping pong match.

[D82]

I've edited my previous post to add more reactions. The only one I've found so far that isn't completely positive is this one:

Saw #overthemoonnetflix today. It’s beautifully animated with a brilliant first 30 minutes and a real sense of Chinese traditions. The second half felt more standard to me even though its visuals are imaginatively rendered. Too many songs tho.

Source: https://twitter.com/ClarenceMoye/status ... 3589294081

Phillipa Soo plays a pop star moon princess that also raps during a ping pong match.

I knew you would like that one.

Is it possible the song "Yours Forever" was cut and only the reprise survived?

Maybe, but why call it a reprise then if the full song isn't in the film anymore? It doesn't make sense. We'll have to wait till the soundtrack is released to find out what kind of song it really is.

I'm sorry to say that after seeing this trailer I'm not that excited anymore. I'll still watch it and I'll form my opinion only after then, but that trailer kind of turned me off.

Same. I was very excited for this. Hoped it would sort of be an Chinese-fable Little Nemo in Slumberland. But this popstar Moon Goddess thing is a complete turn off for me. Not only is it terribly corny, but I feel like we’ve seen this 100x over. The design of the city and such is incredible. And I’m sure it’ll have a good heart, but... wow I’m disappointed right now.

To be honest, I also found that trailer a bit disappointing, though I didn't completely lose my excitement for the film. The first trailer was much more mysterious and magical while that one was full of contemporary music and jokes. The early reactions are encouraging, though, so that trailer is probably not very representative of the film.

I also really liked the song. I think Over the Moon will be the feature to beat at the next Oscars, which of course Soul will. By the way, the lyric video doesn't contain the full song. There are two verses in the beginning that are missing, possibly because of the spoiler that her dad found a new girlfriend. You can find the full song in the link below.


Source: https://overthemoon.lnk.to/rttm

Thanks for sharing! I think I had missed that post, or maybe it was updated and I didn't notice. Here's also a Youtube link for that version of the song. It truly is a beautiful song. I liked it from the beginning, but it has grown on me more after listening to it several times. And I have to admit "Ultraluminary" is quite catchy too. I didn't have high expectations for the soundtrack at first given that I didn't know the composers, but now I'm really looking forward to hearing the rest of the songs.

Regarding the father's new girlfriend, the last trailer hinted he could have found someone, but I wasn't sure if that was the case or not. I guess it's Mrs. Zhong, the character voiced by Sandra Oh. It makes more sense that Fei Fei wants to prove the tale of the Moon Goddess is true now knowing her main motivation is to prevent her father from having a new girlfriend. I guess she'll not only have to learn how to cope with the loss of her mother, but also to accept his father should be allowed to find love again.

[disneyprincess11]

Phillipa Soo plays a pop star moon princess that also raps during a ping pong match.

Yeah, I'm going to repeat the others: After watching the last trailer, my interest has gone very down. The teaser was poignant and I was so excited to know what was on the Moon.....I didn't expect THIS. Nice to see it has great reviews on Twitter though.

[D82]

First clip from Over the Moon and an interview with the producer.

[D82]

I've just found this synopsis for Over the Moon and a character breakdown for Chin that are not new, but I think hadn't been posted before. I thought Chin was Fei Fei's brother, but it turns out he isn't (at least not yet).

Fei Fei, Mother and Father had the perfect life managing their moon cake bakery in a small water town in Southeast China. When Fei Fei was young, Mother told tales of Chang’e, the Moon Goddess. But after her Mother’s untimely passing, a new woman, Mrs. Zhong, arrives with her young son, Chin. In an effort to prove to her Father that her Mother’s stories were true, and with the help of her uninvited side-kick, Chin, Fei Fei will embark upon a journey to the moon, and learn that the deepest loves stay with you, while still allowing you to make room in your heart for something new.

CHIN: Asian-male, Character portrayed is 8 to 11 years old. Chin is Mrs. Zhong’s annoying, but lovable, son. He is eight years old. He, like Fei Fei, believes in the impossible. He thinks of himself as a superhero, who can run through walls and alter the laws of physics through pure awesomeness.

Source: https://hnentertainment.co/exclusive-st ... -the-moon/