I remember first talking with Jorden in 2012. He was new to Bricks in Motion, and had approached me about the project that I was working on at the time – Johnny Thunder and the Mysterious Orb. He mentioned that he’d once animated several videos with the titular character in the past, but, hadn’t planned on uploading them. I persuaded him to release them, partially encouraging him that “every film has something others can learn from” and, partially because I was really interesting in watching another adventurous brickfilm.

While it wasn't a technical marvel by any means, it was definitely inspired compared to most newer brickfilmers work. We shared some similar likes, (aside from LEGO) and, he had a very similar approach to storytelling as I did. His next few brickfilms were enjoyable, and, it was easy to see is rapid improvements.

By the time of the Contrast contest, I was still knee-deep in a Johnny Thunder project, and, regrettably, had to pass. I tried to mostly avoid watching films from the contest – partially out of my own guilt for not entering. However, the buzz circulating around Jorden’s “Perpetual Twilight” eventually caused me to give in and give it a watch. While I’m not a big fan of vampires, myths, or fantasy, I did really enjoy the brickfim.

It’s camera angles and use of lighting was especially different, pushing the limits of his technical abilities to really create a nice looking and mood-fitting atmosphere. The story, as well, was gripping and easy to grasp. It wasn’t hard for me to relate to the characters and get lost within “Perpetual Twilight’s” fictional world.

It was around this time that I approached Jorden about “Immortalized,” another Johnny Thunder project of mine. The role was for some “air pirates,” – simply throw away characters that would only serve to move the plot along in a somewhat comedic, somewhat adventurous way. However, the audition I received from Jorden quickly changed my mind about the characters.

His funny voices and interesting dialogue on the whole subject of “Pirates in the Sky” made me outright cackle in a stupor of uncontrollable laughter. Not only was he very funny, but he was also fitting for the roles, completely exceeding my expectations.

While “Mysterious Orb” and “Immortalized” may have silently ended, my respect and admiration for Jorden has not. I’d certainly love to work with him on a Brickfilm project in the near future, and, am excited to learn that he also has an interest in composing music!

Here’s to ya’, JonnDthunDer. Keep up the great work!

Way to go!  Love how JohnDThunder's brickfilm was on one of my family's favorite TV shows for the kids!