A Studio Full of Ninjas:
The Making of a Modern Animation Classic   

(continued)

By Alyce Wilson and Mike Ryan

FROM: Clio Zamboni
TO: Blanche Wolfington
SUBJECT: Length of Genji

After copious hours digesting the classic courtly interludes of Tale of Genji, our intrepid staff have concluded its monumental scope precludes condensation into one film. It is my professional recommendation to opt for four, one more film than the acclaimed Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Such a grand project could inspire millions and earn us the acclaim previous projects (like Ninja Godfather) failed to achieve.

The first movie tells of Genji's childhood in the emperor's court. After the death of his mother, a concubine, he is demoted to commoner. The second relates his amorous exploits and subsequent marriage, ending in courtly scandal and exile. The third tells of his visit to the Sumiyoshi Shrine and return to the capital, focus shifting to his children's courtly intrigues. And the fourth film tells of his waning years, focusing on Genji's son and grandson, along with the Eighth Prince and Ukifune.

I humbly proffer my proposal.

FROM: Blanche Wolfington
TO: Clio Zamboni
SUBJECT: Re: Length of Genji

Max nixed the tetralogy. He wants a plot summary for one film on his desk by noon. He suggests "cutting out the talky bits" and adding ninja fight scenes.

TO: Blanche Wolfington
FROM: Clio Zamboni
SUBJ: My Resignation

After wrestling with my conscience, I can not participate in the mangling of a great work of literature. Much as I would love to shepherd a proper Tale of Genji adaptation, I would not participate in a severely stunted version. I will be seeking employment from more erudite employers.

FROM: Bart Fling
TO: Charlie Algernon
SUBJ: You'll Never Believe This, Bro!

Guess what? Clio flew the nest over "artistic differences" and the Big Cheese put me in charge of that Tale of Genii project. I don't know much except a plot outline she left behind, and there aren't geniis in it anywhere.

FROM: Charlie Algernon
TO: Bart Fling
SUBJ: Not Geniis, Ninjas

It's called Tale of Genii, but it's not about geniis. It's more about ninjas. Or, actually, it's not about that either, but Maxo wants ninjas. How about if we get together this weekend to hammer it out over brewskis and sushi?