‘Maya and the Three’: Netflix Shares First Images of its Animated Mesoamerican Epic
Netflix has unveiled two long-awaited first-look images for its upcoming epic, Mexican mythology-inspired limited series “Maya and the Three” from Emmy-winning “El Tigre” and “The Book of Life” director Jorge Gutiérrez.
“Maya and the Three” was one of a six pack of original animated productions announced by Netflix in November of 2018, when the first and thus far only concept art was shared publicly. Since then, details have been kept under wraps, with only a few veiled hints shared by the series’ effusive creator.
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“As a lifelong lover of fantasy films from around the world and deeply inspired by the glorious Mesoamerican art and exhibits of the Museo Nacional de Antropologia in my hometown of Mexico City, I created “Maya” as our own fiercely rebellious Eagle Warrior Princess,” said Gutiérrez in a statement accompanying the images’ release.
He added: “Our young heroine is lovingly inspired by the real Mexican warrior women in my life: my mother, sister and my eternal muse, my wife. I cannot wait for audiences of all ages from around the world to join ‘Maya and the Three’ on their funny, heartfelt and epic quest to vanquish the underworld gods to save their magical world. For anyone who loved ‘El Tigre’ and ‘The Book of Life,’ you are in for a spicy treat!”
Gutiérrez will be joined next week by one of his Mexican warrior women influences when he and his wife Sandra co-host a Work in Progress presentation for “Maya and the Three” at this year’s hybrid online/in-person Annecy Festival. Gutiérrez has long been a fan favorite at the French festival, with his talks drawing crowds that wait hours hoping for a seat. One advantage to this year’s hybrid format is that any accredited individual interested in attending will be able to access the WIP panel virtually.
Set to launch globally on Netflix later this year, “Maya and the Three” is set in a mythical Mesoamerican inspired world where Maya, a warrior princess, sets off on her own odyssey to recruit three legendary fighters who she believes can help save the world of humankind and gods. Gutiérrez co-wrote the series with “Elena of Avalor” scribe Silvia Olivas, who also co-executive produced. Jeff Ranjo (“Moana”) is head of story.
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