Help create this AI-assisted animation of PH history
A team of Gen Z and millennial creators is bringing to life a project that aims to tell the story of the country’s struggles under Spain in an easily digestible manner
In the previous school year’s hybrid classes, I appreciated how my son’s young adviser and Social Studies teacher connected with her sixth-grade wards. Camille Siaron played games they could relate to, like Genshin Impact, and carried over the theme in decorating their classroom. She created videos explaining what would otherwise be tedious moments in Philippine history. My son spoke highly of her and retained information because of her engaging storytelling, which challenged her class to think.
How we teach and learn has changed, and we must adapt— fast. But not all educators may be as tech-savvy. So when my brother JC showed me his new project gaining traction on social media, I had to help spread the news.
PUNX Studios, an animation and gaming team of Gen Z and millennial creators, is starting a funding campaign to bring their AI-enabled animated series, “333: The Rise of Heroes,” to life. The series’ trailer went viral on TikTok (tinyurl. com/9rkzm8vy), with callouts to Netflix and other studios to produce and support the project. The seven-episode saga unpacks the historical struggles of the Philippines during the Spanish colonization with a narrative that unearths stories of bravery, resilience and the relentless fight for freedom.
The team embarked on this project hoping that the story of the Philippine revolution can be experienced in an easily digestible manner, to help people understand who Filipinos are and how they came to be, and shed light on the truth of their journey to freedom.
Fusing animation and AI
PUNX’s animation team has been part of studios behind titles like “Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?,” “Looney Tunes,” “Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against The World,” “My Little Pony, Where’s Waldo?,” “Tom and Jerry” and “Astro Boy.” By combining talented animators and AI tools, the time needed for the creative process and rendering designs is significantly reduced. The convergence of animation and AI technology allows the independent studio to churn out quality stories in an appealing cartoon format quicker than before.
At a time when Western culture dominates most online content consumed by impressionable children, “333: The Rise of Heroes” can offer a fresh take on Philippine history, fostering a renewed appreciation for the country’s culture and iconic figures. The series tackles the early years of the Philippines and its arduous path to independence, illuminating historical events and the unsung heroes who played pivotal roles in the country’s emancipation. Meticulously researched revelations are interwoven with familiar stories. Here are some excerpts from its website:
Meet Lapulapu, the hero of Mactan, whose suspicions sparked a legendary clash against Magellan and his crew. Discover the lesser-known yet equally inspiring tales of Andres Malong, Sultan Kudarat, Tamblot and Gabriela Silang, fierce defenders who rose against oppression and fought for justice.
Be inspired by Padre Gomez, Padre Burgos and Padre Zamora, three heroic priests who gave up their lives to protect the land they loved. Immerse yourself in the intellectual revolution led by José Rizal, the national hero whose pen proved mightier than any sword. Witness the indomitable spirit of Andres Bonifacio, who led the charge of the Katipunan for freedom, and his rivalry with the first president of the Philippines, Emilio Aguinaldo.
A call to action
To bring “333: The Rise of Heroes” to life, PUNX Studios hopes to gain global support with a Kickstarter campaign to raise $110,000. By contributing to the historic preservation of the past in this manner, supporters become an integral part of the animated series that shares the courageous stories of the Filipino people and their indomitable spirit.
Backers get exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to the series’ animation process, with a deeper look into how the stories come to life onscreen. Limited-edition merchandise is offered as tokens of appreciation, to proudly showcase one’s involvement in the project.
For $10, supporters get an exclusive look at the series once it’s finished. For $50, you get 10 limited animated photos, too. At $100, backers also get five special desktop wallpapers. For $500, you receive an online art book and a sneak peek at the behindthe-scenes artwork. A $1,000 pledge also gets you access to the script drafts, while $2,500 gets you all the aforementioned rewards plus a meet-and-greet
with the creators of “333: The Rise of Heroes.” —CONTRIBUTED INQ
Become a co-architect and support “333: The Rise of Heroes” on Kickstarter. Learn
more about the campaign and how you can contribute at kickstarter.com/projects/ punxstudios/333-the-rise-ofheroes. Visit punx.ai or email corporate@punx.ai.