A documentary for Amazon following the mission and exploration of Jet Propulsion Laboratory’s Opportunity Mars Rover, which captured the world’s attention in 2004 along with its twin robotic explorer, Spirit, is in the works, the creators have announced.
“Good Night Oppy,” is being co-produced by Amazon Studios, Amblin Television, Film 45 and Tripod Media, with Director Ryan White, Amblin representatives said in a written statement.
With collaboration from JPL and Industrial Light & Magic, the film follows the extraordinary mission of the rover, nicknamed “Oppy.”
“Oppy was originally expected to live for only 90 days, but she ultimately explored the Red Planet for nearly 15 years,” according to the statement. “The story is one of a robot traveling a planet on her own, but driven — literally — by the connection and extreme bond that formed between human and machine.”
Head of Amazon Studios Jennifer Salke said the company was “thrilled to be working with these extraordinary partners.”
“The innovation and determination that made Oppy’s journey possible, and the spirit of discovery that drives the team at JPL, are an inspiration,” she said.
White said he’s thoroughly enjoyed working on the project thus far.
“I grew up on films like “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” and “Wall-E,” so to make a documentary with similar themes of wonder and awe has been a joy,” he said. “We’re thrilled to work with Amazon to bring the story of Oppy and her humans to global audiences of all ages.”
A release date has not been announced.
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