Got a lot of questions regarding "behind-the scenes" of that stop motion short. Concerning the most asked - yes, it was all model and miniature work. We only used the computer for compositing (chroma-key/green screen). 'Dragon Frame' stop motion software for image capture. The "laser blasts" were created using some basic graphic design software. We achieved some pretty good effects using the most basic of methods. A bit of "forced perspective". No computer animation (CGI) was involved. We have great respect for CGI. We have greater respect for craftsmanship. One should compliment the other in our opinion. A few of the techniques we stumbled across by (lots of) trial and error. We're keepin' that secret. That's all we got to say about that.
Ya' gotta' start with a script. Basic shooting script for the short. We're in the process of expanding the storyline into a full length spec script.
Original "creature" design and construction. "Ball and socket" armature (T) and a later, smaller wood and wire armature "Yeti" (B).
Hand built ball and socket joints.
A composite ball socket and hinge joint - from forge to finish
An early test. After weeks of work we finally decided we didn't like the results. Our big issue was that the "eye" needed some articulation to give this guy some personality. Back to the drawing board.
Decided to go with an "Artificial Intelligence (AI)" mechanical look. Required some revision of the script. Here's an initial test of that concept. Camera lens focal Depth-of-Field (DoF) test as well. Don't think that we ever worked at a DoF greater than 2" throughout the entire "shoot". We wanted a 40's-50's "Sci-Fi B-movie", bit corny type of creature look
That guy for the test is a wood and wire joint armature. Subsequently built one metal ball, socket and hinge armature "production model".
That's it "on set". Next issue was how to "finish" this thing. Every covering, such as cloth, liquid latex, combination of both, didn't achieve the "mechanical look".
Finally realized, "Hey - he looks good just the way he is!". Trimmed some aluminum tubing to cover the joint hex nuts for added effect. Can't get much more mechanical looking than that. It was always interesting when someone would stop by and inquire of our progress. Their questions would always wind up enhancing the storyline. We would always just make up answers on the spot. "Well, this guys the head AI Bot - sort of like the head alien in the 'Alien' films - he's a scientist/physicist type - the brains of the outfit". Would then revise the script.
Built three more, wood/wire joints, and gave 'em some "laser weapons". Added a few to the background plate, to create a portion of a subordinate "army".
Laser weapon test frame
Three shot composite scene
We wanted a 40's black and white film stock "look". That was simple enough by just adding a digital filter to Herdegen's "film footage". We mistakenly filtered the opening "locker" sequence as well. That should have been color footage. Oh well. Can't complain. Not many missteps for a first go.
End of Part 2 - Part 3 to follow
