Video and Sound Production - Final Project: Stop Motion

30 May 2023 - 14 July 2023 (Week 9 - Week 14)
Vincent Lee // 0359386
Video and Sound Production // Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media // Taylor's University 
Final Project: Stop Motion
Group 

INSTRUCTIONS <span id="LIST"></span>

Final Project: Stop Motion



Instructions

MIB
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Final Project: Stop Motion

In week 1, we were instructed to watch several stop motion shorts and shortlisted it, after that provide explanations based on the style, art direction, character design and etc. 

Figure 1.1 - Negative Space by Tiny Inventions

The creator's actual relationship with his father served as the basis for the costumes and miniature replicas in the movie, and the style and art direction penetrate the entire narrative. The animation is more realistic because of the inclusion of little details like facial expression and precise garment placement. The ability to transform inanimate objects into living things, like the belt into a snake, demonstrates the creator's imaginative abilities. The character driving out of a tunnel and the opening of his father's bag zipper serve as smart scene transitions. Moreover, the application of negative space in the movie enhances the plot while also acting as a visual reflection of the characters' feelings. 

Figure 1.2 -Fokri (The Basket) by Suresh Eriyat

With its careful attention to the hand-crafted stores and realistic use of wind to blow the baskets away, this stop-motion animation is very stunning. I also observed that the author emphasises the major characters with darker lighting, particularly in the scenes that are situated in the author's home. This not only raises the story's emotional impact but also emphasises how awful life is in India, where adequate light can often be a luxury. Despite being a static stop-motion video, it is visually appealing due to the smooth and fluid animation and motion of the objects. Additionally, the sound effects improve the video's narration and pacing.

Figure 1.3 - Umbrella by Stratostorm

The little movie was of astonishingly excellent quality. The raindrops that hit the window and bounced back, as well as the movement of the leaves during the boy's father's overnight absence from the orphanage, served as evidence of its extraordinary realism. The characters' carefully crafted facial expressions and brows aided to the scene's enhanced mood. Furthermore, the choice of colors, sound effects, and music all significantly contributed to improving the emotions, expressions, and storytelling. These features truly stood out in the scenario where the character visited an unfamiliar place and effectively evoked interest and anxiety. The viewer was given to an absolutely gorgeous experience because to the carefully chosen composition, lighting, and angle of the photos. The contact between the young child and girl was filmed in slow motion, which gave the scene a lot of emotional weight.



Week 9 - Week 11 | Topic Proposal & Execution

Figure 1.1 - Topic Discussion, Week 9 (30 May 2023)

Both of us have encountered the distressing issue of animals being subjected to unethical treatment. This is primarily attributed to the lack of stringent legal restrictions that can effectively protect and govern the lives of these vulnerable creatures.

Figure 1.2 - Topic Proposal, Week 9 (30 May 2023)

Figure 1.3 - Art Direction and Editing Execution, Week 11 (16 June 2023)



Final Stop Motion Submission

Figure 1.4 - Final Project: Stop Motion, Week 13 (27 June 2023)


Feedback 

Week 10
Fig 1.2 - Topic Proposal
Mr. Martin has emphasised the importance of holding accountable those who engage in animal abuse, aligning with our purpose of raising awareness on this issue. However, in Fig 1.4, the wrongdoer manages to escape without facing any consequences, even after causing the death of the cat.

Mr. Martin does not endorse any actions beyond what has already been depicted. He suggests that in Scene 6, the blood transforms into drifting sand, haunting the wrongdoer as a symbolic representation.

To further develop the storyline, we propose extending it with five additional scenes in Fig 1.5. These scenes will seamlessly continue from the ending portrayed in Fig 1.4.


Week 11
Do not move the phone or change the shot size. Instead of having a close-up shot on the expression of the antagonist in scene 3, we can use something like an evil horn to indicate its malicious intentions. 

In scene 4, it is advised to show the cat with a frightened expression, as it tries to run away but is unable to escape. 

In scene 6, as the antagonist departs, the blood will transform into a ghost 👻, haunting for revenge. For the final scene, it was suggested to use clay instead of typing it.


Reflection

Through this module, I discovered the art of visual storytelling and audio manipulation. Pre-production planning taught me the importance of careful scripting and storyboarding. Understanding camera techniques and shot composition revolutionized my perception of creating compelling visuals. Sound effects, music, and voiceovers play a crucial role in enhancing a video's atmosphere. Collaboration highlighted the significance of teamwork and collective creativity. Although technical challenges were present, I gained valuable skills in using various software. Overall, this module has enriched my passion for multimedia creation, equipping me with the tools to bring captivating stories to life through the power of video and sound.


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