BOOKWORM
Written & Directed by Christian Curry Akuna
After hours in a quiet library, a young librarian ventures into the restricted section — and finds that something inside is very much alive.
What began as a one-page horror script and semi-finalist in the Killer Shorts competition (ranked #15 Horror Short on The Red List) has evolved into a hand-drawn animated short created by just three artists.
Written and directed by Christian Curry Akuna, animated by James Lopez (The Princess and the Frog, The Lion King), with post-production by Jake Akuna, Bookworm combines classic hand-drawn animation with modern compositing and sound design to build tension and atmosphere one frame at a time.
This work-in-progress offers a first look at the team’s process — a small, independent production brought to life through collaboration, creativity, and a shared love of horror storytelling.
OUR TEAM
CHRISTIAN CURRY AKUNA, Writer/Director
With a background shaped by experience at studios like DreamWorks, CBS, and Paramount, Christian Curry Akuna brings a storyteller’s perspective to the world of animation and visual effects.
As the writer and director of Bookworm and co-founder of VFX2GO, Christian merges her industry expertise with her passion for independent filmmaking. Her work explores how atmosphere, sound, and visual language can evoke fear, tension, and empathy — even within the confines of a single page.
Recognized by Killer Shorts as one of 17 LGBTQIA+ Screenwriters To Watch in 2024, Christian continues to champion diverse voices and innovative storytelling. Through Bookworm, she demonstrates how imagination and collaboration can turn minimalist ideas into cinematic experiences that linger long after the lights fade.
JAMES LOPEZ, Animator
James Lopez is an award-winning filmmaker and veteran Disney animator with more than 35 years of experience in the animation industry. His credits include serving as a Lead Animator on The Emperor’s New Groove and Hercules, and animating memorable characters such as “Dr. Facilier” in The Princess and the Frog and “Timon” in The Lion King.
As the animator of Bookworm, James brings his expertise in traditional hand-drawn animation to help shape the short’s visual style and tone — blending classic techniques with modern storytelling to create a haunting, atmospheric experience.
A CalArts alumnus and former instructor, James continues to inspire a new generation of artists through both his craft and his commitment to preserving the art of 2D animation.
JAKE AKUNA, Post-Production Producer
With more than two decades of experience in film and television, Jake Akuna is a visual effects supervisor, filmmaker, and co-founder of VFX2GO. His work spans stylized music videos, cinematic shorts, and visual effects for both independent and studio productions.
As the post-production producer of Bookworm, Jake brings his expertise in compositing, lighting, and effects to help bridge traditional animation with modern digital tools. His collaborative approach emphasizes creative problem-solving and resourceful production — values that have defined his career and continue to guide VFX2GO’s mission to make visual storytelling more accessible to independent filmmakers.
SOCIAL POSTS
Killer Shorts 2023 Semi-Finalist Motion Poster
Bookworm Red List Announcement