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My 10-year-old son’s biggest hero isn’t a baseball player, music star or television icon. It’s the dead inventor, artist, and Dan Brown-moneymaker Leonardo da Vinci. The late, great genius has captivated my son to the point of obsession, and he can’t be the only one.
In fact, here’s proof he’s not. The Canada-based kids entertainment company Chocolate Liberation Front (you know they must have a great employee lounge) recently announced development of a multi-platform project called “The World of Infinite Curiosity,” about an 11-year-old boy named Decklin who’s influenced by da Vinci’s inventions.
They’re launching it as a game which could possibly mature into a primetime TV series, and ultimately evolve as (fingers crossed) a Happy Meal tie-in.
But why wait for the Canadians to do it first? We're not talking about health care. As Leonardo himself might say if he were here, “Let’s go Hollywood on this puppy.” Here’s the three-word pitch to Disney execs:
“Young Leo da Vinci.”
Think:
• Famous “da Vinci” cinema association
• Celebrity association of the name Leo
• What says “bring the whole popcorn-munching family” more than “Young”?
• Great vehicle for stand-out, gifted Disney star [insert Disney star du jour here]
Can’t you see the billboard now? “da Vinci is da bomb!”
Just have your people call my people. I want points. And I have a perfect recommendation for technical adviser. He’s a little on the young and small side, but just right for the job, trust me on that.
