Sunday, July 22, 2007

Animated Andy


Since it's been a while since my last post, I think several designs are in order (I've not had access to my old image files until recently, and I'm still without a scanner until the fall). Here are character designs for some of the star roles from the classic program, "The Andy Griffith Show". It was for a class assignment in which I had to pick a show that had never been animated before (to my knowledge it hasn't).


Andy and Opie Taylor


Aunt Bea and Barney Fife


Gomer Pyle



Monday, July 2, 2007

Have you tried Ratatouille yet?


I got to see Pixar's latest film Ratatouille this past weekend. One of their best to date, I'd say! The story was intriguing, and there were definitely moments in the plot that caught me off guard or happened not when I expected them to. The characters were designed well, each one displaying a unique personality (I particularly like the designs of Gusteau, Anton Ego, and Skinner). The animation was a definitely a tour de force; watch especially the facial expressions and movements of Linguine. The attention to detail the artists put into everything else, from the backgrounds to the effects to the props once again proved that Pixar really cares about the craft and appeal behind their work.
Other good things to note were a talented cast of voice actors, great music, and a great animation sequence that ran through the credits (I'm not sure how it was done; cut outs, or in After Effects perhaps). I will say that I need to see the movie again (I would like to see it again) so that I can better assess it, but it is still a wonderful film. Also, before the movie starts viewers are shown (following a company tradition) a new Pixar short film, entitled "Lifted". If you think that humans have it tough with driver's ed, then check this one out!
So in case you haven't treated your movie-watching taste buds yet, go on and try Ratatouille. Oh, and one last warning: I recommend eating before or after the film, because it's bound to make you a little hungry by the end (after all, it is about food; even the title is a dish). Bon appétit!