From Bedtime Tales to Global Animation: James Reatchlous’s Journey with Master Moley
In a world where dreams often intertwine with reality, few stories resonate as deeply as that of James Reatchlous. He transformed his bedtime stories into a vibrant animated series that now enchants audiences across 180 countries.
This tale is about more than just animation; it’s about resilience, creativity, and the magic of storytelling. Let’s dive into how James went from battling stage four lymphoma to becoming the mastermind behind the beloved character, Master Moley.
A Fight Against Cancer: The Birth of a Dream
In 2016, James Reatchlous faced a daunting challenge.
- He was battling stage four lymphoma.
- Chemotherapy took a toll on his body and spirit.
- Yet, amidst this struggle, his two daughters brought him handwritten bedtime stories he had created years ago.
As they read the adventures of Master Moley, a cheerful mole living beneath Windsor Castle, James felt a spark of joy.
“Hearing my daughters read those stories lifted my spirits,” James reflected. “The doctors said I was going into remission, and I believe it was partly because of Moley.”
This magical moment led James to a realisation: his stories could do more than entertain; they could inspire. Once discharged, he penned a business plan in the Chelsea Physic Garden, aiming to turn his beloved character into a franchise.
The Rise of Two Daughters Entertainment
James founded Two Daughters Entertainment, a company dedicated to bringing his imaginative world to life.
- Animated Series: Today, the animated series featuring Master Moley has captured hearts in 30 languages.
- Upcoming Films: With three full-length animated films in development, including The Land of Sometimes featuring Ewan McGregor and Helena Bonham Carter, James is set to make a significant mark in the animation industry.
“I knew nothing about animation six or seven years ago,” he admits, but his determination led him to connect with industry experts.
Building a Network in Animation
James’s journey wasn’t just about creating stories; it was about forging valuable connections.
- He brought in renowned figures like Alan Yentob, former BBC creative director, and Bonnie Arnold, an executive producer with a background in Pixar and DreamWorks.
- His initial investors included notable names from the UK business landscape, such as Lord Stuart Rose and Lord Tim Bell, which helped raise over $18 million to support his vision.
The Magic of Collaboration
James teamed up with talented individuals who shared his passion for storytelling.
Tony Nottage, a British producer and animator, played a pivotal role in adapting the Moley stories for the screen.
- Testing Ideas: Tony tested the stories with his daughters, ensuring they resonated with children.
- “James’s original idea sparked with me,” Tony said, noting the heartfelt messages embedded in the tales.
Despite the stories being written without a script in mind, Tony worked diligently to honour James’s vision while making them suitable for animation.
Overcoming Personal Challenges
Like James, Tony faced his own battles.
In 2012, doctors discovered a tumour in Tony’s brain. He understands the fragility of life and the importance of storytelling.
- His experiences mirrored James’s, making their collaboration even more profound.
Together, they produced a short film titled Master Moley: By Royal Invitation, which premiered in 2019 on the Boomerang channel.
The Expansion of Master Moley
As the pandemic created a surge in demand for content, WarnerMedia commissioned a Moley series comprising 52 episodes.
- The success of the show resulted in Warner paying $1.7 million for European rights, with additional revenues pouring in from global broadcasting deals.
- A second series is already in the pipeline.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Two Daughters
James’s ambitions don’t stop with the animated series.
- Future Projects: Two more animated feature films are planned alongside The Land of Sometimes, which is set to be released in December 2025.
- He envisions merchandise, apps, stage plays, and even a Moley-themed attraction in a British theme park.
James’s strategic vision also includes building a robust library of intellectual property, with an eye on a potential exit strategy in the late 2020s.
“I want to maintain a connection with Moley until the day I leave this Earth,” James stated. “He’s my creation, and I’d love to be an ambassador for Moley if we were acquired by a larger company.”
Conclusion: A Tale of Resilience and Creativity
James Reatchlous’s journey from illness to animation highlights the transformative power of storytelling.
- His ability to turn personal adversity into a creative triumph serves as an inspiration for many.
- The evolution of Master Moley from bedtime stories to a global phenomenon illustrates how passion, perseverance, and a little bit of magic can create something extraordinary.
As we witness the growth of Two Daughters Entertainment, one thing is clear: the world of animation is about to be enriched by a story that began with a father’s love and determination.
Learn More:
- James Reatchlous James Reatchlous
- bedtime stories Bedtime Stories
- animated series Animated Series
- Two Daughters Entertainment Two Daughters Entertainment
- Master Moley Master Moley
