Immersive Novel "It Remains" Merges Art, Technology, and Social Impact
Vasil Tuchkov, the visionary behind "It Remains," presents a dystopian world that blurs the lines between fiction and reality.
This immersive, post-apocalyptic novel is more than just a story – it’s a multi-platform experience where the audience plays an active role.
A novel, video game, mobile app, and even blockchain technology converge in this bold narrative, all aimed at raising awareness about plastic pollution and homelessness.
A New Era of Storytelling: Audience as Creators
It Remains isn't simply a book you read – it's a world you help shape.
Tuchkov’s ambition is clear: transform the audience into creators.
"We are raising awareness for plastic pollution and for homelessness," he explains, emphasising the broader mission behind the work.
This isn’t just a story for passive consumption; it’s an experience that invites the audience to engage and participate.
The project is gamified, with digital and real-world elements woven together through a computer game, mobile application, and NFT integration.
Tuchkov aims to create a community-driven, decentralised franchise that bridges the gap between Hollywood and the rapidly growing web3 communities.
He says,
“The future of entertainment should be interactive and seamless.”
Currently, the "It Remains" community spans over 70,000 members, a testament to the project's wide appeal.
A Vision Born from Personal Struggles and Artistic Inspirations
The creation of "It Remains" came at a turning point in Tuchkov’s life.
As the pandemic disrupted his world, he sought a way to channel his personal challenges into something meaningful.
He shares,
"When the pandemic began, I was going through a challenging time in my life. I felt the need to create something new."
Drawing inspiration from works like Cormac McCarthy’s “The Road” and the creativity sparked by the Burning Man festival, Tuchkov envisioned a post-apocalyptic world defined by harsh desert landscapes and the remnants of civilization.
“The Road” is a post-apocalyptic novel by American author Cormac McCarthy, published in 2006.
Tuchkov also infused elements of real-world issues, such as homelessness, by photographing individuals in various cities and transforming these images into art within the novel’s world.
Transforming Ideas into Action: Building a Decentralised Franchise
What sets Tuchkov’s vision apart is his approach to ownership and collaboration.
"We want to be the link between Hollywood and web3 communities," he asserts.
The project’s team includes industry heavyweights, such as Antony Hristov, former art director at Pixar, and Rob Prior, a renowned illustrator with ties to Marvel and DC Comics.
L-R: Antony Hristov and Rob Prior
These talents not only help shape the project's artistic direction but are also stakeholders in the venture.
“Currently, we are three primary partners—Ed Matinyan, Christo Peev, and I—as well as more than 20 investors from around the world,” says Tuchkov.
Tuchkov’s philosophy of decentralisation means that anyone within the community can propose new ideas.
"You can share the idea with the community and we can fund it from the studio’s treasury," he says, highlighting the power of collective creativity.
The core team of 12 people is based in Bulgaria, with contributors scattered globally, working towards the common goal of shaping a new entertainment ecosystem.
Expanding the Vision: Netflix, NFTs, and Beyond
The project's scope doesn't end with a book or a game.
The team is already working on a pilot episode for a Netflix animated series, as well as a film that will combine both animation and live-action.
"The big news is that we are working on a pilot episode for Netflix animation," Tuchkov reveals, showcasing the ambition to reach even larger audiences.
In addition to the immersive storytelling experience, the project also embraces NFTs as part of its ecosystem.
These digital assets offer fans a stake in the ongoing success of the franchise, adding a layer of engagement rarely seen in traditional entertainment.
An Innovative Approach to Fundraising
Despite the project's scale, Tuchkov is keen to avoid the traditional route of large fundraising campaigns.
He explains,
"We want to do our job first before asking for money."
He references the title of Frank Zappa’s album, “Shut Up and Play Your Guitar”, as a guiding principle:
"We don’t share the idea of asking for a million when you just have one presentation in your pocket."
“Shut Up And Play Your Guitar” album by American musician, composer, and bandleader, Frank Zappa.
Instead, Tuchkov’s strategy revolves around "reverse engineering," focusing on building a solid foundation before seeking significant capital.
Through these efforts, Tuchkov is redefining the way stories are told, inviting audiences to not only consume content but to shape and own it.
"It Remains" is not just a book; it is the beginning of a new, decentralised era in entertainment.