A Walden Media project begins with compelling source material, like a book that kids, their parents, teachers, and community leaders already love and admire. Many recent and current productions are based on classic books like The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe or recent award-winning novels such as Holes and Because of Winn-Dixie. Other productions are inspired by "real-life" stories like deep-sea exploration or the incredible career of Jim Thorpe.

The production department then selects the right creative team to bring the story to life. The directors, cast, and crew who work on Walden Media films, television, and theatre are among the most respected in their field, including both Academy Award(R)-winning veterans and notable newcomers. Many have personal connections with stories they are telling--the movie may be based on a favorite book from childhood or a story that their own kids have enjoyed reading.

As production gets underway, the company’s in-house education specialists assess how this particular movie or show might spark excitement in the classroom. Walden Media partners with teachers, museums, and national organizations to develop a comprehensive educational program that delves into a wide range of topics and appeals to different learning styles.

Walden Media offer in-class teaching tools like activity guides, discussion topics, and enhanced DVDs. We sponsor special field trips and events--for example, a robot-building competition or writing workshop simultaneously broadcast to movie theaters around the country. Directors, writers, and stars of our productions participate in these events. Walden Media also provide seminars and forums for teachers to discuss their craft and to trade ideas on using media in the classroom.