JM ART

The Mini-taurs (working title)

Lassie mixed with Captain Planet. A children's cartoon about grade school friends that gain the power to turn into their 'spirit' animal at whim. In the first episode they are magically given the ability by an old lady hermit with a powerful gem. Similar feel of discover of new body and abilities to the scene from in Sword in the stone - they are humans temporarily in animal bodies, and have to learn how to use this ability. They can only turn into one animal. The animals are all urban familiar, so fit into suburb city setting where the kids live.

As their powers are a secret and responsibility, they aren't supposed to use them in school, although of course they do sometimes to get revenge on bullies or escape detention and various hi-jinx. But over the season, Ms. Wu trains them to use their powers for good, to stop blue collar criminals, evil polluting corporations and big developers from bulldozing parks. And of course they save people and other animals from being run over, falling in rivers, getting trapped in old abandoned buildings.

CHARACTERS

Ms. Wu

Woman, 90. Asian. Elderly hermit- lures kids into woods on a treasure hunt. She turns into a great horned owl and each episode start with her spying on bad guys in the night and flying away. Then the theme song starts. She is their 'splinter' who trains them to use their animal forms in the woods.

Wally

Boy, 12, Caucasian. Spirit animal is a dog. He can bark, and warn the cops like Lassie, bite the baddies butts, rescue people from rivers. Likes to chase sticks, easily distracted by petting. He's the natural leader but just wants it to be democracy and wants everyone to agree and be happy and save the town.

Lily

Girl 11, Asian. Spirit animal of cat. Rarely agrees on the group consensus. Likes doing things solo, her way. Annoyed by lack of abilities of other animals. Sneaks around ninja like, super acrobatic. Claws at crooks to scratch them and distract them. When learning how to be a cat her cat instincts take over and she always lands on her feet. Has the closest calls but many lives. Incredibly daring.

Santi

Boy, 11, Hispanic. Spirit animal Raccoon. He's a bit clumsy but tough and speaks his mind. Always arguing with his younger sister. He seeks adventure but is a bit scared when things get too dangerous.

Mariana

Girl, 9, Hispanic. Spirit animal squirrel. Younger sister of Raccoon. She is rambunctious and speedy. Doesn't take anything seriously. Over estimates leaping ability and strength often. Gets in trouble all the time. Fearless to a fault.

Hector

Boy, 10, African American. Spirit animal mole. Glasses. Nerdy. Super smart. boy Master planner. Not the most athletic. But can digs under buildings. A lock pick expert, the resident computer and electronic expert. Loves video games.

Riya

Tomboy, 11, Indian. Spirit animal hamster. Nervous, Hyper. Creative. Sarcastic. Sneaks around. Looks adorable. Best friend of Hector. Also loves video games. More often then not comes up with the best plans of the group.

For the cast of characters, make it racially diverse and and even mix of boys and girls, and play against the stereotypes, no African American jock, or nerdy Asian etc.

Random stolen web art inspiring feel of show;