Kids' TV Vet Tackles Bullying in Feature Film

Mike Caron, a veteran director of popular children's television shows, is embarking on a new cinematic venture. He has acquired the rights to adapt Sara Coven's award-winning middle-grade novel, 'The One We Left Behind.' Sean Lavery, a writer known for his work on comedies, is penning the screenplay for the feature adaptation.

Caron's production company, launched in 2022, will develop the project. He expressed enthusiasm for bringing independently published works to the screen, highlighting the raw authenticity of Coven's novel. The story, set in the 1990s, follows a group of seventh graders navigating friendship, bullying, and the repercussions of their choices.

Central to the narrative is 13-year-old Evan, whose social standing is tested when he is paired with William, a new student targeted by peers. Their initial resentment evolves into an unexpected friendship, compelling Evan to confront peer pressure and bullying. Coven was inspired to write the novel by her nephews' experiences with severe food allergies.

This endeavor represents a strategic move for Caron, expanding his reach to a broader family audience beyond his extensive work with Nickelodeon. He previously served as an assistant director on numerous successful series. Caron is currently in pre-production for another feature, 'Invader.' Lavery also brings a personal perspective, inspired by his disabled son, aiming to add depth to the story's exploration of universal themes through hyper-specific experiences.