Directing is Proper Dope

Joule, Andy ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2688-7263 (2018) Directing is Proper Dope. In: Directing the Future, 12/11/2018 - 15/11/2018, Mumbai. (Submitted)

Preview

Slideshow (PDF version of Keynote Presentation) Directing is Proper Dope. .pdf - Presentation Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial. Download (845kB) | Preview

Abstract / Summary

In comparison to live action the practice of filmmaking in animation is essentially a reversed process. The animation director’s relationship with the actor is unique because of this. Shaping character animation begins with the vocal performance. Each idiosyncratic movement or reaction is derived from the voice actor’s performance, the intonation of one driving and inspiring the movement and personality of the other. The relationship of animation director and actor, understanding the integral part that the actor plays in shaping the onscreen character and performance underpins successful character animation. Directing this in VR is a new paradigm.

Through the authors own experience of directing actors for animation in the UK and supported by a filmed interview case study of Aardman’s ‘We Wait’ this presentation will examine the preparation, planning considerations, approaches and specific pipelines utilised by the director working from the script through to dope sheets. It will shine a light on how directing the voice in VR animation is a peculiar to the medium. Enabling students to experience and participate in the art of directing for VR animation beyond them focusing on character itself is a crucial step in future- proofing their skill set.

The paper contextualises the process of directing attention from early theatre in the round called Plen An Gwari (or Playing Place) who’s origins are unique to Cornwall and who’s approach to audience perspective is effectively a reversal of other forms of theatre in the round. It draws on the deconstruction of a number of VR narrative shorts to establish a base line from which to begin and then examine in more detail ‘ We Wait’ by unpicking it scene by scene. The intention is to establish a preliminary set of cardinal principles or considerations for directors in VR for both sound and visuals.

View Record (staff only)