“LAIKA Presents: The Seamless Fusion of Stop-Motion and Visual Effects Technologies in LAIKA’s Feature Films” by Hayns and McLean
Conference:
Type:
Title:
- LAIKA Presents: The Seamless Fusion of Stop-Motion and Visual Effects Technologies in LAIKA's Feature Films
Presenter(s)/Author(s):
Project Affiliation:
- LAIKA
Abstract:
LAIKA, the Oregon-based animation studio behind the remarkable features ParaNorman (2012), Coraline (2009) and The Boxtrolls (in theaters 26 September 2014) has inspired audiences – and industry professionals – with an unprecedented visual artistry. Animators breathe life into meticulously hand-crafted puppets while visual effects artists seamlessly enhance the performance with cutting-edge technologies. This unparalleled fusion of stop- motion and computer graphics has garnered the studio two Oscar nominations and worldwide acclaim. In this session, Georgina Hayns and Brian McLean address the key interdependent and collaborative relationships between these uniquely different but critically important departments.
The presentation will address the following:
• The use of Maya and Zbrush to enhance practical sculpts;
• 3D Printed material and subsurface scattering to allow puppet builders to break free of previous design limitations;
• The advancements in color 3D printing and the enabling of puppet builders to evolve beyond prior design limitations;
• The use of in-house developed silicones which enable character performance previously unseen in stop-motion animation;
• The utilization of 3D Printers to pre-vis puppet construction issues and control how practical materials perform;
• The use of laser cutting fabrics to enhance the design and functionality of the puppets costumes.
• Production puppets will be displayed during the presentation.
Image Credit: LAIKA, Inc.
