Taylor and the Time Machine (Proof of Concept)
Denver, Colorado | Film Feature
Animation, Adventure
A teenage boy embarks on a musical journey through his imagination, unaware that if he avoids responsibilities, responsibilities find him! We need YOUR support to bring our Proof of Concept to life!
Taylor and the Time Machine (Proof of Concept)
Denver, Colorado | Film Feature
Animation, Adventure
1 Campaigns | Colorado, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $28,715 for development. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
92 supporters | followers
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A teenage boy embarks on a musical journey through his imagination, unaware that if he avoids responsibilities, responsibilities find him! We need YOUR support to bring our Proof of Concept to life!
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A teenage boy embarks on a musical journey through his imagination, unaware that if he avoids responsibilities, responsibilities find him!
Taylor and The Time Machine is an exhilarating 3D animated musical inspired by the heartwarming and emotionally stirring narratives of Disney and Pixar. To transform this vision into an unforgettable feature film, we’re starting with a bold first step—creating a captivating Proof of Concept Trailer with stunning 3D animation, a full musical score, and top-tier voice acting.
This trailer will transport audiences on an emotional journey with Taylor and his unforgettable robotic friend, BillyBot. Experience a sneak peek into the vibrant characters, immersive environments, and adventures that await—crafted to spark the imagination of audiences and ignite the interest of financiers and producers, paving the way for a groundbreaking feature.
At its heart, Taylor and The Time Machine follows Taylor Thomas, a once-bright young boy whose joy has dimmed since the growing distance with his beloved father. They once shared magical adventures using their imaginations, but as his father’s engineering career demanded more of his time, Taylor felt more alone. In a heartfelt effort to bridge this gap, Taylor’s father builds BillyBot, an inventive robotic companion meant to fill the void.
When tragedy strikes and Taylor’s father suddenly passes away, Taylor and his mother are left to pick up the pieces. Escaping into his imagination with BillyBot, Taylor embarks on a breathtaking “Calvin and Hobbes”-style journey – bursting with emotion, lessons in empathy, and visually stunning escapades – only to discover that running from your troubles only makes them grow.
Join us as we bring this unforgettable adventure to life with stunning visuals, blending wild creativity with poignant storytelling, and invite audiences of all ages to dream, feel, and heal alongside Taylor and BillyBot.
Speaking of VISUALS!
Introducing: FLOW ANIMATION
Flow Animation operates out of Atlanta, Georgia, and as a team they've already poured weeks of hard work into designing the characters and environments for our Proof of Concept Trailer, some of which you can see glimpses of in our Pitch Video. The Proof of Concept Trailer is in the animatic stage and will soon transition into full blown 3D renderings!
They're energetic, they're extremely collaborative, and they're already surpassing all of our expectations. Flow's work is going to blow you away! They've got their fingers firmly placed on the pulse of our imagination!
"The beauty of animation isn't recreating reality. It's distilling it." - Brad Bird
"Animation is not the art of drawings that move but the art of movements that are drawn" - Norman McLaren
"The best writing really does come from the deepest, most private parts of you." - Michael Arndt
Taylor and the Time Machine (Concept Art, 2025)
Animation can explain whatever the mind of man can conceive." - Walt Disney
This concept art above showcases early designs and developing work from Flow Animation. Throughout the creative development process, RJ works closely with Flow to refine the designs, accentuate character, and make sure the adventure's as vibrant as possible! We need your help to complete the 3D animation and really make it shine!
Introducing: SEAN PACK
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Sean pack is working in Hollywood and his music has been featured in The Equalizer, S.W.A.T. and the Night Agent. He has been aboard from the very beginning, bringing a warmth to the story through his original songs, amassing authenticity as the story develops, and providing the original score for the trailer as well!
WHY NOW?
The team and I believe all-ages musicals from the Disney Classics Era have famously brought families closer. Today we're endlessly distracted and more disconnected than ever. Taylor and the Time Machine hopes to be an antidote for distractions, in a way that articulates the power of imagination and creativity that's fun for everyone.
"This story started and stuck in my head way back in 2005, back when smart-technology hadn't yet taken hold, and I think the themes have only become increasingly relevant. My imagination has only deepened as we've culturally dipped deeper into our phones. As technology has been so successful in keeping us from living in the present, I want to use the technology of modern 3D animation, this beautiful art form, to bring us closer together." - RJ Wagner
We need to learn to use our imagination for good.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT
Donate today and share with your friends and family that LOVE animated films and heartfelt family stories! It takes a village for a project like this to get the green light, but it all starts with a great script and a trailer produced by some truly talented creatives. By contributing you're exclusively responsible for feeding the soul of the story, and making it a reality.
Our perks range from digital downloads of the original trailer score from Sean Pack to VIP experiences at our Proof of Concept Trailer Reveal Party and even an opportunity to see yourself as an animated character in the Proof of Concept!
OUR WISHLIST
This pie chart outlines exactly where the money is going, and you can contribute directly to one of these aspects of production if you so choose!
Our initial goal is $35k, and if we surpass that, we have an additional Stretch Goal of $5,000! This additional infusion would would cover our transportation in Los Angeles, food and beverage, and additional events and seminars at the American Film Market.
FREQUENT UPDATES
We will post production updates from Flow Animation and keep you up to date on how the project is advancing!
Thank you for taking the time to familiarize yourself with the adventures of Taylor and BillyBot. We cannot wait to show you what the team has been cooking up, but until then - stay inspired!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Animation
Costs $16,000
Exceptional 3D Animation is expensive - and without it - Taylor and the Time Machine is just words on a page!
Development
Costs $8,000
Producers and Production Teams must be hired to unite for Development, which organizes the creative needs and makes them reality.
Music
Costs $6,100
This covers the cost of the music team to complete the original music for the proof of concept, and more!
AFM - Travel and Lodging
Costs $2,200
This will cover the costs of sending our production team to AFM.
AFM Passes
Costs $2,700
Tickets to AFM are very expensive! Help us get there!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
RJ Wagner (Writer/Director)
RJ Wagner, the youngest of six in his family, was born in Long Beach, California. He’s always had a creative spirit and gravitated towards singing when he was young. After his many trips to California’s Disneyland at a young age, RJ vowed that he would one day work for the Mouse. That dream came true not long after he graduated from Loretto Heights College in Denver with a BFA in Music Theatre.
RJ worked three years for the Disney Corporation in their entertainment department. He’s been a singer, dancer and even an acrobatic pirate. One of his last performances with Disney was a show on the Hollywood Bowl stage with the Original Mouseketeer’s as well as dancing as a chimney sweep from the movie Mary Poppins accompanied by Robert & Richard Sherman.
Later in life, RJ ventured onward into film and television. Some of his most notable credits include: Quantum Cowboys (dir. Geoff Marslett), Ape vs. Monster (dir. Daniel Lusko), The Cleaning Lady (dir. Marisol Adler) and Into the Wild Frontier (dir. Paul Epstein) to name a few.
RJ is also the owner of a family friendly entertainment company by the name of Slippery Slope Productions, LLC, which celebrated its 20th year in business this year. The idea of “Taylor and the Time Machine” was formed around the inception of his business and he is so excited to see his dreams of this production finally come to fruition.
Flow Animation (3D Animators)
An award winning team of 3D Animators operating out of Atlanta, Georgia.
Sean Pack (Songwriter/Composer)
Composer and Producer known for his work on The Night Agent and The Equalizer.
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
A teenage boy embarks on a musical journey through his imagination, unaware that if he avoids responsibilities, responsibilities find him!
Taylor and The Time Machine is an exhilarating 3D animated musical inspired by the heartwarming and emotionally stirring narratives of Disney and Pixar. To transform this vision into an unforgettable feature film, we’re starting with a bold first step—creating a captivating Proof of Concept Trailer with stunning 3D animation, a full musical score, and top-tier voice acting.
This trailer will transport audiences on an emotional journey with Taylor and his unforgettable robotic friend, BillyBot. Experience a sneak peek into the vibrant characters, immersive environments, and adventures that await—crafted to spark the imagination of audiences and ignite the interest of financiers and producers, paving the way for a groundbreaking feature.
At its heart, Taylor and The Time Machine follows Taylor Thomas, a once-bright young boy whose joy has dimmed since the growing distance with his beloved father. They once shared magical adventures using their imaginations, but as his father’s engineering career demanded more of his time, Taylor felt more alone. In a heartfelt effort to bridge this gap, Taylor’s father builds BillyBot, an inventive robotic companion meant to fill the void.
When tragedy strikes and Taylor’s father suddenly passes away, Taylor and his mother are left to pick up the pieces. Escaping into his imagination with BillyBot, Taylor embarks on a breathtaking “Calvin and Hobbes”-style journey – bursting with emotion, lessons in empathy, and visually stunning escapades – only to discover that running from your troubles only makes them grow.
Join us as we bring this unforgettable adventure to life with stunning visuals, blending wild creativity with poignant storytelling, and invite audiences of all ages to dream, feel, and heal alongside Taylor and BillyBot.
Speaking of VISUALS!
Introducing: FLOW ANIMATION
Flow Animation operates out of Atlanta, Georgia, and as a team they've already poured weeks of hard work into designing the characters and environments for our Proof of Concept Trailer, some of which you can see glimpses of in our Pitch Video. The Proof of Concept Trailer is in the animatic stage and will soon transition into full blown 3D renderings!
They're energetic, they're extremely collaborative, and they're already surpassing all of our expectations. Flow's work is going to blow you away! They've got their fingers firmly placed on the pulse of our imagination!
"The beauty of animation isn't recreating reality. It's distilling it." - Brad Bird
"Animation is not the art of drawings that move but the art of movements that are drawn" - Norman McLaren
"The best writing really does come from the deepest, most private parts of you." - Michael Arndt
Taylor and the Time Machine (Concept Art, 2025)
Animation can explain whatever the mind of man can conceive." - Walt Disney
This concept art above showcases early designs and developing work from Flow Animation. Throughout the creative development process, RJ works closely with Flow to refine the designs, accentuate character, and make sure the adventure's as vibrant as possible! We need your help to complete the 3D animation and really make it shine!
Introducing: SEAN PACK
Sean pack is working in Hollywood and his music has been featured in The Equalizer, S.W.A.T. and the Night Agent. He has been aboard from the very beginning, bringing a warmth to the story through his original songs, amassing authenticity as the story develops, and providing the original score for the trailer as well!
WHY NOW?
The team and I believe all-ages musicals from the Disney Classics Era have famously brought families closer. Today we're endlessly distracted and more disconnected than ever. Taylor and the Time Machine hopes to be an antidote for distractions, in a way that articulates the power of imagination and creativity that's fun for everyone.
"This story started and stuck in my head way back in 2005, back when smart-technology hadn't yet taken hold, and I think the themes have only become increasingly relevant. My imagination has only deepened as we've culturally dipped deeper into our phones. As technology has been so successful in keeping us from living in the present, I want to use the technology of modern 3D animation, this beautiful art form, to bring us closer together." - RJ Wagner
We need to learn to use our imagination for good.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT
Donate today and share with your friends and family that LOVE animated films and heartfelt family stories! It takes a village for a project like this to get the green light, but it all starts with a great script and a trailer produced by some truly talented creatives. By contributing you're exclusively responsible for feeding the soul of the story, and making it a reality.
Our perks range from digital downloads of the original trailer score from Sean Pack to VIP experiences at our Proof of Concept Trailer Reveal Party and even an opportunity to see yourself as an animated character in the Proof of Concept!
OUR WISHLIST
This pie chart outlines exactly where the money is going, and you can contribute directly to one of these aspects of production if you so choose!
Our initial goal is $35k, and if we surpass that, we have an additional Stretch Goal of $5,000! This additional infusion would would cover our transportation in Los Angeles, food and beverage, and additional events and seminars at the American Film Market.
FREQUENT UPDATES
We will post production updates from Flow Animation and keep you up to date on how the project is advancing!
Thank you for taking the time to familiarize yourself with the adventures of Taylor and BillyBot. We cannot wait to show you what the team has been cooking up, but until then - stay inspired!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Animation
Costs $16,000
Exceptional 3D Animation is expensive - and without it - Taylor and the Time Machine is just words on a page!
Development
Costs $8,000
Producers and Production Teams must be hired to unite for Development, which organizes the creative needs and makes them reality.
Music
Costs $6,100
This covers the cost of the music team to complete the original music for the proof of concept, and more!
AFM - Travel and Lodging
Costs $2,200
This will cover the costs of sending our production team to AFM.
AFM Passes
Costs $2,700
Tickets to AFM are very expensive! Help us get there!
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
RJ Wagner (Writer/Director)
RJ Wagner, the youngest of six in his family, was born in Long Beach, California. He’s always had a creative spirit and gravitated towards singing when he was young. After his many trips to California’s Disneyland at a young age, RJ vowed that he would one day work for the Mouse. That dream came true not long after he graduated from Loretto Heights College in Denver with a BFA in Music Theatre.
RJ worked three years for the Disney Corporation in their entertainment department. He’s been a singer, dancer and even an acrobatic pirate. One of his last performances with Disney was a show on the Hollywood Bowl stage with the Original Mouseketeer’s as well as dancing as a chimney sweep from the movie Mary Poppins accompanied by Robert & Richard Sherman.
Later in life, RJ ventured onward into film and television. Some of his most notable credits include: Quantum Cowboys (dir. Geoff Marslett), Ape vs. Monster (dir. Daniel Lusko), The Cleaning Lady (dir. Marisol Adler) and Into the Wild Frontier (dir. Paul Epstein) to name a few.
RJ is also the owner of a family friendly entertainment company by the name of Slippery Slope Productions, LLC, which celebrated its 20th year in business this year. The idea of “Taylor and the Time Machine” was formed around the inception of his business and he is so excited to see his dreams of this production finally come to fruition.
Flow Animation (3D Animators)
An award winning team of 3D Animators operating out of Atlanta, Georgia.
Sean Pack (Songwriter/Composer)
Composer and Producer known for his work on The Night Agent and The Equalizer.