California Documentary Project
Lost Treasure Hunt
Film Arts Foundation
Producer and Director: Matthew G. Davis
Enlivening California history for young people
“Lost Treasure Hunt” is a series of half-hour television episodes about topics in California history using a combination of animation and documentary-style filmmaking. The programs are designed for young viewers between the ages of 6 and 12.
The story line of “Lost Treasure Hunt” involves two young secret agents from the Society of Lost Treasure Hunters who search for answers to questions about California’s past.
“This approach challenges the common notion that history is a passive pursuit relegated to scholars,” said Producer and Director Matthew Davis. “The secret agents, for example, may take the viewer on adventures along the John Muir Trail in one episode or in search of clues pertaining to the life of César Chávez in another. As the secret agents — and the viewers — uncover clues, they will gain a greater understanding of the state’s history.”
This project is currently under development; the project staff hopes to complete a sample reel of episodes by fall 2008.