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October 4, 2002—It has been the policy of Big Idea Productions to not comment on or provide validation to rumors. Unfortunately, the recent story carried on ChristianityToday.com left too many unanswered questions and presented our company in an inappropriate light.

Big Idea Productions, through its distributor Artisan, has today released its first feature film, Jonah. Near the end of Jonah's production, Big Idea confirmed the full release schedule for 2003, and kicked off pre-production of our second feature film, The Bob and Larry Movie. Based on this schedule as well as a weakened retail environment in both the Christian and mass markets, we found we were unable to carry a fully staffed production crew from one film to the next. We tried to avoid this but the gap between production schedules was just too great. The staffing reduction that occurred at Big Idea was a "correct sizing" of the studio to the levels that are required for upcoming productions. This was a heartbreaking reality that we had to face. Fortunately, the majority of artists who created Jonah will continue on to develop our second feature film.

We do not exist to profit, but we must profit to exist and continue to provide our fans with high quality entertainment that impacts our culture positively. In addition, it is the practice of film production studios to grow staff during peak times in the production process. When our second feature film moves into full production, it is most likely that Big Idea will experience a temporary staffing increase.

We value all people who have contributed to the success of Big Idea. In an industry that places profits above all else, we will continue to stand firm in our commitment to deliver trusted family entertainment.

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Additional CT coverage of Jonah and Big Idea includes:

Runaway Asparagus | Big Idea's Jonah is both wholesome and hip.

The Top Tomato | Phil Vischer's tenacious campaign to dominate family entertainment.

(The Voice of) Larry the Cucumber Speaks | "Nobody thinks growing up that they're going to be a cucumber."

The Serious Business of Silly Songs | The director of music for the VeggieTales talks about bringing musical depth to the score.

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October (Web-only) 2002, Vol. 46