Created in its entirety by first-time filmmaker Josh Staub, The Mantis Parable is the charming tale of a humble caterpillar trapped in a bug collector's jar and in need of a helping hand. The story unfolds when a praying mantis with some lessons to learn in humility stumbles upon him.

A parable in every sense of the word, the film encourages the viewer to find the truth revealed through the characters actions and choices. From story to visuals to music and sound, Josh created this computer animated film over an 18 month span at home in his spare time.

Well known in the CG community for his art and design work both personally and professionally, this is Josh's first linear story-telling endeavor. By day, Josh is the Art and Visual Design Director for Cyan Worlds, the creators of the popular games Myst, Riven, and URU: Ages Beyond Myst.

AWARDS / RECOGNITION

Awards for ?The Mantis Parable (2005)

Chicago International Children's Film Festival 2005 2nd place Children's Jury Award Animated Short Film or Video

Winnipeg International Film Festival 2005 WIFF Award Best Animation

Director BIO:

Josh Staub is the Art and Visual Design Director for Cyan Worlds, creators of the popular computer games Myst, Riven, and URU: Ages Beyond Myst. At age 22 Josh became the Art Director for Cyan, widely considered the art and storytelling pioneers of the gaming world. From his roles in Riven (Artist, CG Production Director, and Game Designer) to URU: Ages Beyond Myst (Art and Visual Design Director) his artistic and storytelling skills have helped to elevate and maintain Cyan Worlds' position as a leader in the increasingly competitive gaming industry.

The Mantis Parable is Josh’s first film. This charming tale was inspired by Josh’s love of story, and his specific desire to explore linear storytelling as opposed to the non-linear stories he helps develop at Cyan. The Mantis Parable was created entirely by Josh, allowing him for the first time to combine his artistic, storytelling, and musical talents into one project.

Since it's premiere at the Seattle International Film Festival in May of 2005 (where it was awarded 4th-Runner Up for the Golden Spaceneedle Award for Best Short Film), The Mantis Parable has garnered numerous accolades around the world. Notably, in September of 2005, Josh was awarded the prestigious Future Filmmaker Award of the Palm Springs International Festival of Short Films, bestowed to the