#animation and VFX 2025

[arena-ahmedabad]

How Animation & VFX Are Revolutionizing Modern Storytelling in 2025

In a world where content is king, animation and visual effects (VFX) have become the crown jewels of modern storytelling. Whether it’s a Hollywood blockbuster, a digital marketing campaign, or a gaming experience, visual storytelling is no longer limited to static frames — it’s an immersive journey.

At Arena Animation, we’ve seen firsthand how the fusion of art, technology, and imagination is shaping the way stories are told.

🎥 The Rise of Immersive Narratives

From traditional 2D animation to hyper-realistic 3D VFX, the scope of storytelling has expanded beyond imagination. Animators now create entire universes, making characters more relatable and narratives more engaging than ever before.

Example: Look at the emotional impact of animated films like Inside Out or the jaw-dropping realism of Avatar: The Way of Water.

💡 Animation in Everyday Media

It’s not just the movies — animation is now embedded in:

Advertising (explainer videos, motion graphics)

Education (e-learning modules, tutorials)

Healthcare (medical simulations)

Gaming (cinematic storytelling, character building)

With tools like Blender, Unreal Engine, and Autodesk Maya, students at Arena Animation are mastering industry-grade software that shapes global content.

🌍 Global Demand for Skilled Animators

The global animation market is expected to surpass $500 billion by 2030. This surge opens up high-paying career options in:

Film & TV

Gaming

Virtual Reality (VR)

Advertising & Marketing

E-learning

With specialized programs in Animation, VFX, Gaming, and Multimedia, Arena Animation is bridging the gap between talent and opportunity.

👨‍🎓 Why Arena Animation?

25+ years of experience

250+ centers across India

Certified courses in animation, VFX, UI/UX, and more

Industry-aligned curriculum with expert faculty

Hands-on project work + placement support

We’re not just a training center — we’re a launchpad for creative careers.

🚀 Ready to Start Your Creative Journey?

Whether you’re a school student, graduate, or working professional, Arena Animation offers flexible and career-oriented programs that empower you to turn passion into profession.

➡️ Contact us today for a free consultation or quote.

📞 Call us now at [917575002888]

🌐 Visit us at https://arena-animation.in/

📍4007/4008, B Wing, The Retail Park (TRP Mall), Main BRTS Road, Ambli Bopal Road, Bopal, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380058

[thiccguyayan]

Conversations that would’ve mattered. 2025.

[xarliclub]

#LiloAndStitch otro remake en life action. La verdad no sabemos que esperar de la película, pero está ocasionando revuelo.

#XarliClub #movie #movies #cine #cinema #film #films #peli #pelis #pelicula #peliculas #tv #cinemastodon #filmsky🎬 #liloystitch

[scottishgames]

The RESET 2025 programme offers recent graduates and career changers the chance to join Scotland's games, animation & VFX sectors.

[theblogvibe]

Emerging Trends in Animation and Visual Effects for 2025

The animation and VFX world is evolving day by day. It seems like the change has increased the speed as we reach the year 2025. With AI, virtual production, real-time rendering, and immersive storytelling as some of the driving factors, it will be more dynamic, efficient, and immersive in nature.

This revolution will be an excellent future-proofing opportunity for aspiring artists and students. Graphic Design Course in Andheri or Animation course in Andheri, Mumbai, helps future-proof their careers by upgrading the skills and training one needs to succeed in today's fast-changing world.

In this blog, we discuss the top emerging trends in animation and visual effects for 2025 and explain how the right training can help you master these groundbreaking innovations.

AI-Powered Animation: The Future of Storytelling

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing almost every industry today, and the world of animation is no exception. Artificial Intelligence is making animation production fast, cheap, and even more creative by automating labor-intensive tasks such as frame generation, motion interpolation, and scene layout.

How AI is Transforming Animation and VFX AI-Generated Characters and Animation: AI tools like DeepMotion and Adobe Sensei help animators create lifelike characters and animations quickly.

Automated Frame Interpolation: In the classical animation process, it is done by hand as animators manually draw the "in-between" frames. This, of course, significantly quickens up the production process.

Intelligent Tools for Efficient Operations: The operation of even complex tasks can be made simple with the aid of software like Runway ML and AI-assisted rotoscoping, hence giving the animator more time to concentrate on creativity.

AI literacy is no longer a choice for animators. Now, studios expect artists to be well-versed with AI-enhanced workflows. By joining an Animation course in Andheri, Mumbai, students get exposure to the latest AI-based animation software, and students are ready for the future job market of the industry.

Virtual Production: Game Changer in VFX

The biggest disruptor, perhaps in VFX ever, has been virtual production. That has enabled filmmakers, rather than shooting with the help of green screens or compositing later on, to actually visualize and work in real-time environments through using LED walls with game engine technology.

Virtual Production and its Disruption over VFX Application of Virtual Sets: Unlike the requirement of traditional sets, LED walls will create an interactive digital environment for the use of backdrops.

Motion Capture Technology: Actors are recorded in motion capture suits that capture movements in real-time, so filmmakers can track these in real-time.

Real-Time Rendering: Game engines, such as Unreal Engine 5, allow the immediate creation of high-fidelity graphics and interactive 3D environments.

Skills taught in animation and graphic design courses in Andheri to master virtual production

Students at institutes offering Animation and Graphic Design Courses in Andheri are exposed to industry-standard tools like Unreal Engine. They learn to create virtual sets, manage motion capture data, and master real-time rendering workflows, making them indispensable to modern film production teams.

Real-Time Rendering and GPU Acceleration

Hours have gone for waiting in rendering one frame. The real-time rendering has helped the creators see the changes visually as they happen.

How Real-Time Rendering Drives Faster Production Timelines Faster Turnaround Time: Since it decreases the rendering time of the scenes, it is speeding up the production timeline.

GPU Acceleration: More powerful GPUs allow software like Blender, Unreal Engine, and Unity to produce photorealistic visuals in real time.

Why Students of Animation Courses in Andheri, Mumbai Should Learn Real-Time Rendering

Courses in Animation in Andheri, Mumbai equip students with in-depth knowledge on Blender, Unreal Engine, among other tools for real-time rendering. This will determine careers in 3D animation, film, or gaming, where speed becomes a critical production cycle.

The Emergence of Immersive Storytelling - AR, VR, XR

The future of animation is not just on screens but also in our world. Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR) blur the lines between real and virtual.

How AR, VR, and XR are shaping new VFX experiences Augmented Reality (AR): AR superimposes interactive digital elements over real-world environments, as seen in games like Pokémon GO.

Virtual Reality: VR immerses its users in a fully virtual world, creating an experience of interactive and immersive story-telling.

Extended Reality: Extends the reach of both augmented reality and virtual reality for seamless transitions between the two.

Courses in Andheri That Equip You with AR/VR Skills Andheri students, while training in a Graphic Design course, learn to create augmented and virtual reality experiences using software such as Unity and Adobe Aero. This training introduces the students to careers of game development, app making, and interactive media, among others.

Advanced Motion Capture and Performance Capture

MoCap technology permits realistic portrayal of human movements with precision, and it can be found in gaming, film, and VFX.

The Evolution of Motion Capture: What's New in 2025? Modern MoCap suits come with new wireless, portability features, and with high precision levels.

AI-Motion Capture: The advancements of the AI algorithms allowed motion tracking without the whole suit.

Why Animations Courses Students in Andheri Should Learn Mo-Capture

With the growing use of motion capture in video games, animation studios, and virtual production, students who have skills in MoCap are sought after. Institutes offering Animation Courses in Andheri, Mumbai prepare students for practical training in motion capture to work in the top production studios.

Sustainable VFX Production and Green Filmmaking

As the concern for climate change rises, the film and VFX industries take up the cause of reducing their footprint on the earth.

How the VFX Industry is Moving Toward Sustainability Cloud-Based Workflows: Cloud platforms allow artists to work remotely, reducing the need for on-site facilities.

Reduced Energy Consumption: LED-based virtual production and cloud rendering reduce the carbon footprint of traditional production. How Animation and Graphic Design Courses in Andheri Are Adapting to Teach Sustainable Production

The Andheri-based institutes provide a range of graphic design courses. They include the incorporation of sustainable practices, cloud-based workflows, and virtual production technologies. The sustainability in production becomes a productive addition for environmentally conscious studios in learning these students.

Cloud Collaboration in Animation

As remote work is trending these days, cloud collaboration tools have become a boon for animators and VFX artists.

Remote Collaboration and Cloud Workflows in Animation Studios Cloud-Based Production Tools: Software such as Frame.io, ShotGrid, and Google Cloud enable global teams to work on the same project in real time.

Remote Work Opportunities: Animation professionals can work with international teams from the comfort of their homes.

How Animation Courses in Andheri, Mumbai Prepare You for Cloud-Enabled Careers

Courses in Animation and Graphic Design in Andheri train students to use ShotGrid, Frame.io, and other cloud platforms. This prepares them for global job opportunities as cloud collaboration becomes the norm in the animation and VFX industry.

Industry Demand and Career Opportunities in 2025

The demand for skilled animators and VFX specialists is at an all-time high due to the growing importance of animation and VFX across film, TV, advertising, and gaming.

Why Now is the Best Time to Enroll in Animation Courses in Andheri, Mumbai

Rising Demand for VFX and Animation: The streaming platforms, gaming studios, and film production houses are constantly in need of fresh talent.

Diverse Career Roles: Students with skills in AI, MoCap, and AR/VR can work as 3D artist, technical director, and motion graphics designer.

Career Paths After Completing an Animation or Graphic Design Course in Andheri 3D Character Animator VFX Artist AR/VR Developer Motion Graphics Designer

Conclusion

Animation and VFX are witnessing a sea change as we enter 2025. AI, virtual production, AR/VR, and real-time rendering are changing the landscape of the industry. To be a part of this future, enrolling in an Animation Course in Andheri, Mumbai or a Graphic Design Course in Andheri vfx is a smart move. These courses teach you the necessary skills to meet industry demands and prepare you for a dynamic, future-ready career.

Make it happen today: take your first step toward a creative animation career!

[demifiendrsa]

LOVE DEATH + ROBOTS VOLUME 4 | Official Trailer

Season 4 of Love Death + Robots will stream on Netflix on May 15, 2025.

Poster

Volume 4 episode guide

CAN’T STOP

Synopsis: A unique take on the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ legendary 2003 performance at Slane Castle, Ireland, with band members Anthony Kiedis, Flea, Chad Smith, and John Frusciante recreated as string-puppets. Directed by David Fincher, who originally made his name with music videos in the 1980s and early ’90s, before segueing into unforgettable feature films. Director: David Fincher Music, Lyrics and Performance: Red Hot Chili Peppers Animation Studio: Blur Studio. Voice Cast: Anthony Kiedis, Flea, John Frusciante, Chad Smith

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE MINI KIND

Synopsis: Tiny terror is unleashed in this mini alien apocalypse as directors Robert Bisi and Andy Lyon pay loving tribute to classic sci-fi stories of alien invasion and human stupidity using tilt-shift techniques that make the end of the world look almost cute. Director: Robert Bisi & Andy Lyon Writer: Robert Bisi & Andy Lyon Animation Studio: BUCK

SPIDER ROSE

Synopsis: A return to the fantastic cyberpunk universe of “Swarm” (Vol. 3), created by visionary sci-fi author Bruce Sterling and directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson. On a remote asteroid mining operation, a grieving Mechanist gets a new companion and has a chance to avenge herself against the Shaper assassin who killed her husband. Director: Jennifer Yuh Nelson Writer: Joe Abercrombie, based on the short story by Bruce Sterling Animation Studio: Blur Studio Voice Cast: Emily O’Brien, Feodor Chin, Piotr Michael & Sumalee Montano

400 BOYS

Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic city where warring gangs follow a bushido-like code of honor, a new gang, the 400 Boys, forces them to unite. A blend of beauty and brutality from Canadian director Robert Valley, whose LDR episode “Ice” won the Emmy for Outstanding Short Form Animation. Director: Robert Valley Writer: Tim Miller, based on the short story by Marc Laidlaw Animation Studio: Passion Animation, a Division of Passion Pictures Voice Cast: John Boyega, Ed Skrein, Sienna King, Dwane Walcott, Rahul Kohli, Pamela Nomvete & Amar Chadha-Patel

THE OTHER LARGE THING

Synopsis: From the mind of prolific writer John Scalzi comes the story of a cat who plans world domination. Sanchez, as his puny human “pets” know him, is helped by a new robotic butler (voiced by Last Week Tonight host John Oliver) who can hack into the World Wide Web and is eager to help his new master. Director: Patrick Osborne Writer: John Scalzi Animation Studio: AGBO Voice Cast: Chris Parnell, John Oliver, Fred Tatasciore & Rachel Kimsey

GOLGOTHA

Synopsis: In a rare live-action entry in Love, Death + Robots, a conscientious vicar – played by Rhys Darby, (What We Do In The Shadows) – plays host to an emissary of an alien race who believes their messiah has been reborn on earth… as a dolphin. So, uh… yeah, Dolphin-Jesus. Directed by Tim Miller. Director: Tim Miller Writer: Joe Abercrombie, based on the short story by Dave Hutchinson Animation Studio: Luma Pictures (VFX) Voice Cast: Rhys Darby, Moe Daniels, Graham McTavish, Phil Morris, Michelle Lukes & Matthew Waterson

THE SCREAMING OF THE TYRANNOSAUR

Synopsis: On a space station orbiting Jupiter, decadent aristocrats gather to witness a brutal contest of genetically modified gladiators — fierce combatants riding deadly, engineered dinosaurs. A tale of visceral violence and unlikely emotion, directed by Tim Miller, based on a short story by Stant Litore. Director: Tim Miller Writer: Tim Miller, based on the short story by Stant Litore Animation Studio: Blur Studio Voice Cast: MrBeast & Bai Ling

HOW ZEKE GOT RELIGION

Synopsis: B-17 Flying Fortress Liberty Belle has the oddest mission of World War Two: a journey into occupied France to bomb a church before the Nazis can raise an ancient evil. John McNichol’s short story of blood, fallen archangels, occult magic, and ultraviolence is directed by Diego Porral (lead animator on previous LDR classic “Kill Team Kill”). Director: Diego Porral Writer: J.T. Petty, based on the short story by John McNichol Animation Studio: Titmouse Voice Cast: Keston John, Braden Lynch, Roger Craig Smith, Gary Furlong, Bruce Thomas, Andrew Morgado & Scott Whyte

SMART APPLIANCES, STUPID OWNERS

Synopsis: From an angry toothbrush to an overworked smart showerhead and an intelligent toilet, various household appliances divulge tales of bemusement, scorn, and wonder about their human owners. Directed by Patrick Osborne, of Vol. 3 favorite “Three Robots: Exit Strategies.” Director: Patrick Osborne Writer: John Scalzi Animation Studio: Aaron Sims Creative Voice Cast: Melissa Villaseñor, Ronny Chieng, Amy Sedaris, Kevin Hart, Josh Brener, Nat Faxon, Niecy Nash-Betts & Brett Goldstein

FOR HE CAN CREEP

Synopsis: London, 1757. A poet confined to an insane asylum believes Satan wants him to write a verse that will end the world. And the only thing standing between him and the Prince of Darkness (voiced by Dan Stevens) is his cat, Jeoffry. Emily Dean directs this wildly inventive period adaptation of Siobhan Carroll’s short story. Director: Emily Dean Writer: Tamsyn Muir, based on the short story by Siobhan Carroll Animation Studio: Polygon Pictures Inc. Voice Cast: Dan Stevens, JB Blanc, Jim Broadbent, Nika Futterman, Jane Leeves & Dave B. Mitchell

[pandoraheadcanons]

Omaticon 2025 Costuming with Shealyn Biran and Carrie Hollinger

Now, the plan was originally for Lead Designer Deb Scott to attend, however she had to evacuate from Los Angeles due to the fires, but she is safe, and my thoughts and prayers go to her and everyone else out there in LA.

For some more summary from today:

We started with the songchords: their bead-work and macrame intricacy is reflective of the character who made them. Their personality, clan, and community affect the designs.

Someone asked about the macro algae that was incorporated into several designs. In asking if it would decay, they answered that yes, it would. The Na'vi are more accepting of their garments having a finite lifespan. They accept the lifecycle of their world, and of their clothes which closely reflect their world.

All the clothes have to be functional/based in reality. The environmental elements are incorporated into the fashion, and they have distinct features unique to their respective clans.

Sigourney Weaver liked to use the pieces and went to them for inspiration more than others.

James Cameron has a vision he entrusted to Deb, and the glue between all the departments was Jon Landau. His a voice that is sorely missed.

Many of the costume pieces needed regular, even nightly upkeep to keep them intact.

It was very interesting/exciting to blend the disciplines of animation/VFX/costuming for live action.

Shealyn's favorite piece is Neytiri's blue feather neckpiece. It was the first render. She spoke a lot about designing it, because Jim doesn't want "a top to look like a top." The Na'vi don't have modesty standards on earth, so their fashion is more for practicality and adornment/embellishment. The feather top in particular took a lot of work to render and make work.

Carrie's favorite piece is a driftwood top Tsireya wears. It's based off a piece of driftwood Deb found on the beach, and it was inspired by something Carrie thought her daughter would like.

Aonung and Tonowari have similar loin cloth designs, reflecting that families often have their own unique patterns/inspirations.

To go off of that, Neytiri will be holding on to many of Neteyam's accessories in A3 :(

The recoms are all individually designed. Deb has connections with a military associate who has a lot of gear and design inspiration, and all the recom actors got to try on a lot of different gear for inspiration. Deb designed the camo that the recoms wear, as she wanted something different than the digi-camo from A1. The scale of the camo was also important in the designing process.

When asked for advice for young artisans Carrie said she made a lot of her connections at North Carolina's school of arts. So watch your connections! Shea said to never stop learning, and that everything can be a tool. "Keep learning, keep trying, keep playing."

[crazykuroneko]

List of IWTV submissions for Emmy Awards 2025:

Outstanding Drama Series

Outstanding Lead Actor an a Drama Series — Jacob Anderson

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series — Sam Reid

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series — Delainey Hayles

(A/N episode submission for actors is done after nomination)

Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series — Craig Zisk (205), Levan Akin (208)

Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series — Jonathan Ceniceroz & Hannah Moscovitch (205)

Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation — Paul Barritt (Animator, 207)

Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Period or Fantasy Program (One Hour or More) — Mara LePere-Schloop & Kimberley Zaharko (Production Designers)

Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series — Kate Rhodes James (CDG CSA, Casting By), Maya Kvetny (EU Casting)

Outstanding Cinematography for a Series (One Hour) — Earle Dresner, ACS (206), David Tattersall, BSC (208)

Outstanding Period Costumes — Carol Cutshall (Costume Designer)

Outstanding Picture Editing for a Drama Series — Mike Phillips (207), Yuka Shirasuna (208)

Outstanding Period or Fantasy/Sci-Fi Hairstyling — Francesco Pegoretti (Hair Designer)

Outstanding Period or Fantasy/Sci-Fi Makeup (Non-Prosthetic) — Vincenzo Mastrantonio (Make-Up Designer)

Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup — Howard Berger & Tami Lane (Special Make-Up Dept. Heads)

Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score) — Daniel Hart (Composer)

Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics — Daniel Hart (Composer)

Outstanding Music Supervision — Michelle Silverman & Ryan Kattner (Music Supervisors)

Outstanding Sound Editing for a Comedy or Drama Series (One Hour) — Harry Barnes (Supervising Sound Designer)

Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (One Hour) — Michal Holubec (Production Sound Mixer), Howard Bargroff (Re-Recording Mixer)

Outstanding Special Visual Effects in a Season or Movie — Ted Rae (VFX Supervisor), Glenn Kelly (VFX Producer)

Outstanding Special Visual Effects in a Single Episode — Ted Rae (VFX Supervisor), Glenn Kelly (VFX Producer)

Outstanding Stunt Coordination for Drama Programming — Scott Ateah (Stunt Coordinator)

Outstanding Stunt Performance — Scott Ateah (Stunt Coordinator)

Source:

[askagamedev]

Summer 2025 Game Development Student Internship Roundup, Part 1

Internship recruiting season has begun for some large game publishers and developers. This means that a number of internship opportunities for summer 2025 have been posted and will be collecting applicants. Internships are a great way to earn some experience in a professional environment and to get mentorship from those of us in the trenches. If you're a student and you have an interest in game development as a career, you should absolutely look into these.

If you know of any game development internships that aren't listed here, please tell me! I'll try to collect another batch when EA posts theirs as a follow-up.

Technical Artist Intern (Remote!)

Sound Design Intern (Remote!)

Game Design Intern

Game Engineering Intern

Data Analytics & Data Science Intern

Localization Production Intern

Environment Art Intern

Animation Intern

VFX Intern

3D Character Art Intern

Site Reliability Engineering Intern

Concept Artist Intern (Canada)

Animation Intern

VFX Intern

Game Engineering Intern

Technical Artist Intern

Threat Intelligence Analyst Intern

UI/UX Design Intern

User Research Intern

Computer Graphics Intern

Software Engineering Intern

Production & Project Management Intern

Concept Artist Intern (California)

World Designer Intern

3D Artist Intern

Animation Programmer Intern

Animation Technical Design Intern

Audio Design Intern

Backend Engineer Intern

Balance Design Intern

Character Artist Intern

Engine Programmer Intern

Environment Art Intern

Game Design Intern

Game Security Intern

Gameplay Programmer Intern

Gameplay Systems Engineer Intern

Salesforce Developer Intern

Software Engineer Intern

Environment Art Intern

Game Design Intern

Gameplay Programmer Intern

Tools Programmer Intern

Technical Artist Intern

Technical Character Animation Intern

Technology App Portfolio Intern

Tools Programmer Intern

Concept Artist Intern

At time of writing, Electronic Arts was performing maintenance on their recruiting site and should have new openings posted on November 12th 2024. I'll do a second round of internship opportunities once they post, along with Ubisoft and any others I missed.

Brush up your resume and focus on any game dev work you've done. Amateur game dev work counts! Tabletop game mastering counts! Amateur board and card game design counts! Making your own CCG fan sets or draft cube counts! Game jam work counts! These make a bigger difference when it comes to hiring than most other kinds of work experience.

If you need assistance with your resume/CV, cover letter, or have other questions, join our discord and ask. The server is full of experienced developers who can help review your materials and give you suggestions. I also suggest taking a look at my Game Career FAQ. There's a lot of answers in there already. Best of luck out there.

[Join us on Discord] and/or [Support us on Patreon]

Got a burning question you want answered?

Short questions: Ask a Game Dev on Twitter

Long questions: Ask a Game Dev on Tumblr

Frequent Questions: The FAQ

[thesims4blogger]

The Sims 4: Official Laundry List (January 7th, 2025)

EA has started 2025 for The Sims 4 with a new Laundry List, with bugs that will be corrected on an upcoming patch.

The Sims Direct Communications account on Twitter/X has confirmed the update is coming next week. You can read the whole blog post below.

Sul Sul Simmers!

Welcome to The Sims 4 Laundry List, where we share the top community concerns we’re currently investigating and aim to resolve in an upcoming patch later this month.

In our continued commitment to resolving technical challenges, our team uses this list to highlight community-focused fixes that will be included in the update. This list marks our fifth release in this series, which aims to continue to improve the gameplay experience for our players by addressing issues most frequently reported by the community through AnswersHQ.

While some issues may not be listed, they may still be in the process of being addressed. Some topics can require an extended investigation on our end, so even though these fixes may be in active review, it’s not a guarantee that we’ll have an immediate fix for it in the upcoming patch.  As with each new patch, please remember to remove any external game mods and custom content if you are experiencing issues as the first step in troubleshooting, as they may conflict with the updates. Thank you for your reports and happy Simming!

Here’s the list of community concerns we’re investigating for the upcoming game update:

Base Game:

[AHQ] Fixed cases of really high Bills where Lot Taxes would not only count the property value, but also add value from anything in inventories.

[AHQ] Inspired Sim will no longer mix drinks excessively.

[AHQ] ���Try for baby’ in the shower will now fill the Hygiene motive.

[AHQ] Outgoing and Socially Awkward traits cannot be selected together. If one is selected, the other will appear greyed out and cannot be chosen.

[AHQ] Female frame facial hair on Male Sims will no longer disappear.

[AHQ] Shoes are now replaced with barefoot when a Styled Look with barefoot is applied.

[AHQ] Neon signs no longer break due to rain.

[AHQ] Water puddle VFX animation will no longer appear on the ground floor when a Sim is swimming on the second floor.

[AHQ] Sim no longer has the option to give the toddler fertilizer as food from inventory.

Affecting Multiple Packs

[AHQ] Thumbnails of Guidry and Temperance are visible in the relationship panel, Sims profile, and Manage Household panel.

[AHQ] Knitting now counts towards Arts & Crafts for Scouting.

[AHQ] Sims’ weight and muscle levels are now properly affected by Bike Riding, Horse Riding, Rock Climbing, and ‘Jog Here’ activities.

[AHQ] Sim can now set the waffle/pizza oven/stand mixer for sale in a retail store.

Cats & Dogs

[AHQ] Cats and dogs with the fire obsession perk are far less obsessed with the fireplace.

[AHQ] Sims no longer gain fitness skill when cleaning the litter box.

City Living

[AHQ] ‘Play with emotion’ interaction is now greyed out when the piano keyboard breaks.

Cottage Living

[AHQ] Sims can now use Hot Pot with the Simple Living Lot Challenge.

Crystal Creations

[AHQ] Last Exception error will no longer trigger when a ring is placed on the Mystical Moonlight Crystal Grid and the household is reloaded.

[AHQ] Option to order Crystals is now available on the computer.

Discover University

[AHQ] Sim with the Gym Rat trait will no longer lose hygiene while juggling a soccer ball.

[AHQ] Frequency of getting electrocuted from Robotic Workstation has been considerably reduced.

Eco Lifestyle

[AHQ] Roaches are removed from the dumpster after a Sim successfully performs the ‘Try to clear roaches’ action.

For Rent

[AHQ] A serving of Vegetable Chili from the Pressure Cooker will no longer turn into 8 servings.

Get Together

Clubs are now under the default section under the social groups interface.

Growing Together

[AHQ] Fixed an issue where some Life Milestones wouldn’t be achieved when the Sim is off-lot, including Milestones for a toddler Sim’s movement skill.

High School Years

[AHQ] When Sims switch from an outfit created in Thriftea to a regular outfit, they no longer revert back to the Thriftea outfit when showering/bathing.

[AHQ] Notification badges are no longer displayed when the phone is in silent mode and Social Bunny has notifications turned off.

Horse Ranch

[AHQ] ‘Drink an Aged Nectar’ Want now fulfills when Sim drinks an Aged Nectar bottle.

My First Pets Stuff

[AHQ] In new saves, Sim will no longer receive the ‘Baby whisked away’ moodlet and The Sims Notification System will not suggest that Rattigan passed away when Rattigan is still

Snowy Escape

[AHQ] Seaweed Ramen recipe is now available from the fridge cooking menu.

Sim’s Hygiene Motive will now increase when using a Hot Spring.

Spa Day

[AHQ] Applied Pedicure will no longer vanish when a Manicure is requested.

[bjsmall]

Here is the upcoming How To Train Your Dragon live action movie on the Reel Cinema Farnham website!

See link below:

https://reelcinemas.co.uk/farnham-surrey/event/93928/how-to-train-your-dragon

The running time is confirmed to be around 116 minutes for the live action. The original animated movie was 98 minutes.

See posters below:

Book of Dragons (2025) released in May:

Some screens from the Universal website:

Read more about the upcoming movie here:

https://www.tumblr.com/bjsmall/775498594500411392/how-to-train-your-dragon-2025-live-action?source=share

Read my reviews in the link below, also including the original book series by Cressida Cowell:

https://www.tumblr.com/bjsmall/771419356962963456/311224-i-read-my-new-book-how-to-train-your?source=share

DreamWorks original animated How To Train Your Dragon celebrated 15 years since its theatrical release in March 2010. Here is an early official release trailer which came out back in 2009!

Watch video below to see Berk come to life!

Link to London VFX company Framestore:

https://www.framestore.com/work/how-train-your-dragon

Here are some awesome cinematic posters from the official Instagram page of How To Train Your Dragon! 🐉 🐉 

Images are property of Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Animation and Framestore. The movie can be experienced in these cinema formats.

Universal UK site:

https://www.universalpictures.co.uk/micro/how-to-train-your-dragon

Checkout the updated website below:

https://www.welcometoberk.com/about-the-movie/

Here is the IMAX experience trailer, available to watch in 4K!

BBC News article:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c62g2mpkd3yo

I can't wait to experience it this June! 😆🐉 

[s10127470]

Fant4stic: A Fantastic Failure (Part 1)

As I’m sure many of you are aware, this past Valentines Day, Marvel Studios released a poster promoting their upcoming Fantastic Four film, releasing about a year from now in July of 2025.

This has gotten people cautiously interested.....

Keyword: cautiously.

It's no surprise that the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been on a major decline since Avengers: Endgame.

Largely due to ridiculous quantity of projects they've been pumping out a year.

Plus that fact that a lot of these projects quality-wise have been either mid or just straight up dog-shit.

This has led to the ongoing trend known as Marvel Fatigue.

Not helping any of this is some of the behind-the-scenes stuff that was revealed over the last few years.

From having their projects being helm by people who have little to no knowledge or care for the characters and the source material they're working it.

And we all know how well that turns out....

To more infamously, overworking and underpaying their VFX artists.

And given some of the shit they've had to animate, they NEED to start getting better pay....

Yes.....what you just saw was a real scene from a Marvel movie.

And just to add salt to the wound, in addition to the declining interest, is that these recent Marvel films have not been performing well financially.

Hell, The Marvels (their latest film) ended up being a box office bomb, only grossing $206 million worldwide against production budget of $274.8 million. Not only that, but it now holds the record for being the lowest grossing film in the franchise's history.

So yeah.....

Although the casting is pretty decent, the inclusion of H.E.R.B.I.E. was quite the surprise, and the 60s aesthetic/vibes are pretty cool, people still have their reservations for this film given the MCU's track record lately.

However, one thing everyone does seem to agree on is that this film can't be any worse than their last cinematic outing.....

The Fantastic Four have had, funnily enough, have had four feature-length adaptations.

The very first film adaptation of Marvel's First Family was the legendary 1994 film from Roger Corman.

Although it was completed and ready to release, it famously never got released (which I'll touch a little more on later).

However, copies of the film have been circulating since May 31st, 1994.

Over a decade later, the Fantastic Four would get their technically second but first true feature-length film in the form of the 2005 film, directed by Tim Story, and released by 20th Century Fox on July 8th, 2005.

This film would also get a sequel just two years later with Rise of the Silver Surfer, directed again by Story and released by Fox on June 15th, 2007.

And finally, after almost a decade away from the big screen, the FF would return with their fourth and until the MCU film releases, latest film, the 2015 film, or more commonly known as Fant4stic, as that's how it was abbreviated...

A Fantastic Nightmare:

In August 2009, Fox would announce that they would be rebooting the Fantastic Four film franchise.

The reason why is because although Rise of the Silver Surfer did fairly well, grossing $301 million worldwide against a $120-130 million budget, the total gross was notably lesser than the first movie, which grossed $333.5 million worldwide.

And although there were plans for a third movie and a spin-off film focusing on The Silver Surfer, Fox feared those films could possibly be money sinks and opted to reboot the film franchise as a whole.

For the next three years, not a whole lot of progress was done with the planned reboot, apart from the hiring of producers and writers and the consideration of actors.

But the production of the film really started rolling in July 2012 when Fox hired Josh Trank, who was fresh off his directorial debut, Chronicle, to direct film.

And accompanying him was Jeremy Slater, who was hired to the screenwriter for the film, alongside X-Men: First Class writers Zack Stentz and Ashley Edward Miller.

And this where everything went to shit....

If any of you even know about Fant4stic, you'd probably know that it has one of the most turbulent production histories in the last decade of filmmaking.

Before we start actually looking into the production itself, first we need to look at the reason why it was even made in the first place.

And this point brings me back to the 1994 film.

Both that and this film were created for the exact same reason: copyright hoarding.

In 1983, the other producer of the 1994 film, Bernd Eichinger met with Fantastic Four co-creator and the Marvel legend himself, Stan Lee, in Los Angeles to explore obtaining an option for a movie based on Marvel's First Family. The option was not available until three years later, when Eichinger's production company Constantin Film obtained it for a price the producer called "not enormous" and which has been estimated to be $250,000.

Eichinger's initial plan was to have the movie be a full-on blockbuster directed by Chris Columbus, complete with a cast full of big name celebrities.

But despite some interest from Warner Bros. Pictures and Columbia Pictures, budget concerns precluded any production, and with the option scheduled to expire on December 31, 1992, Constantin asked Marvel for an extension. With none forthcoming, Eichinger planned to retain his option by producing a low-budget Fantastic Four film. In September 1992, he teamed with B-movie specialist Roger Corman, who agreed to produce the film on a $1 million budget, to be released by his distribution company New Horizons Pictures.

But we all know how that ended....

Essentially, the entire of that movie ended up in a one big legal loop-hole that only benefitted Eichinger, leaving dozen of people's lives played with and their hopes and dreams crushed.

And in the case of Fant4stic, it's essentially a tragic case of history repeating itself.

Fox only produced Fant4stic not because they were genuinely interested in doing another film based on The First Family, they only did it to use it as an excuse to latch onto the film rights.

As when the 2010s rolled out, Fox's time with the Fantastic Four were about to come to an end as eventually, their film rights would've been reverted back to Marvel, and to that extension, The Walt Disney Company.

But if they had made another Fantastic Four project pretty soon, they would be able to extend their time with the film rights.

And from what I've heard, it seems like Fox wanted to get this film rolling as quick possible with the approaching deadline to the rights.

That's probably the reason why they hired Trank out of all people that could've directed this film.

Which for a film like this, you would think that Fox would go with a director that's a bit more experienced since remember: upon his hiring as director for the project, Trank was fresh off his very first directorial film.

Though you're probably wondering what I meant when I said everything went to shit upon Trank's hiring, well....

There have been plenty of cases where the productions of films have been absolute chores for one of two reasons.

The director or producers just being infamously difficult to work with, like David O'Russel or Michael Bay.

The studio constantly meddling in the production, like....basically every film studio to ever exist.

But Fant4stic is one of the rare cases where both the studio and the director made the production a living hell.

Starting off with Fox (as funnily enough, they did the least amount of damage to the production), they were guilty of....

Forcing constant rewrites

Giving Trank a much-lower budget than initially promised

Hiring a prominent special effect expert for the film, then firing him and not telling Trank about it

When production finally wrapped on the film, they were so unhappy with the finished product, that they ordered massive reshoots, including the film climax

Upon finishing the reshoots, they locked Trank out of the editing room and finishing the theatrical cut of film without him

As for Trank.....Hoo boy! Where do I even begin?

He was guilty for......

Constantly butting heads with the studio executives

Treating the cast and crew like absolute shit

Not showing up to the set on time

Usually showing up completely hammered

Frequently hiding himself from everyone on set

Constantly getting into fights (verbal and even physical) with the cast and crew

Letting his dogs loose and causing $100,000 worth of damage on the set

Constantly fighting with the screenwriters about what the tone of the film should be like

And writing a now infamous tweet on Twitter just the day before the film's release, only to be instantly deleted the next day

And remember, this was the second film that Trank directed....

I've heard of Hollywood getting to people, but it usually takes a couple of years. But in the case of Trank, it practically happened overnight.

And funnily enough, a lot of this behind-the-scenes drama was revealed to the public even before the movie had an official trailer.

So expectations for this film were not particularly very high....

But now that we got that out of the way, let's talk about the actual movie itself.

The "Story":

Childhood friends Reed Richards and Ben Grimm have worked together on a prototype teleporter since youth, eventually attracting the attention of Professor Franklin Storm, director of the Baxter Foundation, a government-sponsored research institute for young prodigies. Reed is recruited to join them and aid Storm's children, scientist Sue Storm and engineer Johnny Storm, into completing a "Quantum Gate" designed by Storm's protégé Victor Von Doom.

The experiment is successful, and the facility's supervisor, Dr. Allen, plans to send a group from NASA to venture into a parallel dimension known as "Planet Zero". Disappointed at being denied the chance to join the expedition, Reed, Johnny and Victor along with Ben use the Quantum Gate to embark on an unsanctioned voyage to Planet Zero, which they learn is a world filled with otherworldly substances. Victor attempts to touch the green lava-like substance, causing the ground they are standing on to erupt. Reed, Johnny and Ben return to their shuttle just as Sue brings them back to Earth and Victor is seemingly killed after he falls into the collapsing landscape. The Quantum Gate explodes, altering Reed, Sue, Johnny and Ben on a genetic level and granting them superhuman abilities beyond their control: Reed can stretch like rubber, Sue can become invisible and generate force fields, Johnny can engulf his entire body in fire and fly, and Ben acquires a rock-like hide which gives him superhuman strength and durability. They are then placed in government custody to be studied and have their abilities tested. Blaming himself for the accident, Reed escapes from the facility and tries to find a cure for their changes.

One year later in 2015, Reed is now a fugitive and has built a suit that helps him control his ability. Hiding in Central America, he is eventually found by the United States military with Sue's help and captured by Ben, who has become a military asset along with Johnny and Sue. Johnny and Sue have been outfitted with specialized suits designed to help them control their abilities. Reed is brought to Area 57, where Dr. Allen conscripts him into rebuilding the Quantum Gate in exchange for giving Reed the resources to find a cure. Arriving in Planet Zero, Dr. Allen's explorers find Victor, who has been fused to his spacesuit and now possesses telekinetic abilities, and bring him back to Earth. Believing that Earth needs to be destroyed to protect his new home world from future invasions, Victor kills the scientists and soldiers in the base, including Dr. Allen and Professor Storm, and returns to Planet Zero using the Quantum Gate, with Ben, Johnny, Reed and Sue in pursuit.

Now dubbing himself "Doom", Victor activates a portal on Planet Zero using the Quantum Gate and begins consuming the landscape of the Earth using a structure he created from the rock formations in Planet Zero. He is confronted by the four and, after a short battle, Ben punches Doom into the portal's energy beam, disintegrating him while Johnny closes the portal. Returning to Earth, the group is rewarded by the US military for their heroics by being given a new base of operations known as "Central City" to study their abilities without government interference. They decide to use their powers to help people and adopt the mantle of the "Fantastic Four".

Yeah, I basically just copied and pasted the premise of this film from Wikipedia.

The reason why is because there really isn't a whole lot to talk about.

The plot is paper thin, and the execution doesn't do it any favors.

In terms of adaptation, this film doesn't really adapt any notable Fantastic Four storylines.

The closest thing to this is that it's a loose adaptation of the first volume/arc of Ultimate Fantastic Four.

You can see this with elements such as.....

The Four themselves being depicted as teenagers/young adults

Reed and Ben being childhood best friends

Franklin Storm actually being a major character whereas in the 616 universe, he's largely irrelevant

The Baxter Building being turned into The Baxter Foundation

The reason for them getting their powers being a teleportation experiment gone wrong

And Doom being involved with the experiment as well and his famous armor being his actual skin instead

However, that's as far as it goes. They don't really bother to adapt the actual story of that arc, which has the team facing off against The Mole Man.

But one of the strangest story choices with this movie is in the case of Planet Zero.

Planet Zero is reportedly suppose to be Fant4stic's version of The Negative Zone.

Why they didn't just call it The Negative Zone, I have no clue.....

But as most of you know, The Negative Zone is famous for being the realm of one of the Fantastic Four's most prominent foes: Annihilus.

And with their version of The Negative Zone, you would think they would probably feature Annihilus in this movie.

But no! He doesn't appear at all nor is he even alluded to. In fact, Planet Zero is depicted as being a lifeless wasteland, with no living organisms in sight.

The Sucky Tone:

In contrast to the previous 3 FF films, this one is far more darker, serious and grounded.

This was because Trank wanted the tone of the movie to be, in his own words, "gritty, serious and as realistic as possible".

And it's safe to that Fox also encouraged this tone as well.

From the early 2000s into the mid-2010s, a good chunk of superhero films relied on taking superheroes and making them darker, gritty and more grounded than they were in their source material and other adaptations.

This can be largely attributed to the X-Men films, which were more serious and grounded than the comics and their other adaptations.

This was done because after the failure of Batman and Robin, comic books movies were briefly seen as cinema poison.

The X-Men films, Daredevil, Elektra, The Dark Knight trilogy, The Amazing Spider-Man duology, and even the first few films of the DC Extended Universe all prided themselves on being more dark, gritter and grounded than their source material and sometimes even predecessors in film.

And while most of these movies are still fondly remembered, I'm gonna have to come out and say this....

I'm not a fan of these films.

Apart from some of these characters just not fitting with a darker and gritty tone, the biggest reason why I don't like these films is because a lot of them reek of this sense of embarrassment and contempt for the source material they're adapting.

Like, some of them are not even being that subtle about it.

I am so glad this was finally made fun of in an actual Marvel project.

And in an age where a lot of producers and directors working on a projects based on long, established properties have been open about either not caring or straight up disliking the properties they're working with, its made many of these films age kinda poorly.

However, there were some superheroes films from the 2000s that didn't fall into this trap.

Undoubtedly the biggest is in the case of the Sam Raimi Spider-Man trilogy.

Those films were unabashedly campy, and were obviously made by people who legitimately cared about, understood and loved Spider-Man.

That's why despite of a having a few faults, the films are still talked about in high regards, even after two decades.

And notably more so than the films I just mentioned.

But back to the film itself, to the Fantastic Four having a dark, gritty and grounded tone.

Most people, myself include, would have to say....

Fantastic Four, while having their dark and serious moments here and there, are some of the most light-hearted characters in Marvel.

Trying to make them dark and gritty just feels incredibly tryhard.

And as for being grounded and realistic.

That's completely antithetical to the Fantastic Four.

They're adventurers and explorers. And many of their adventures have taken place in space, other dimensions, and alternate realties. It's one of the core appeals of the team.

And as you would expect, this tone did not do the film any favors.

Fant4stic is so. Fucking. Boring.

It is deathly serious with no sense of levity or humor to be detected.

The music is bland and generic, the color grading is dull as hell, and the performances....

Dear God....the performances.

I think this actually perfectly segways into the biggest and most important part of this post:

The "Characters":

One of the strongest draws of The Fantastic Four is, well, The Fantastic Four themselves.

All of them are very likable, charming, interesting and endearing in their own way.

And does Fant4stic capture anything that made these characters so great?

Let's start off with Reed first.

Reed in the comics and in just about every other medium is a genius, a polymath to exact.

In fact, he's tied with another one of the main characters I'll be talking about soon as being the smartest person in the Marvel Universe.

But besides being intelligent, Reed is also curious, adventurous, charismatic, level-headed, kind, and most importantly of all, passionate.

Reed is passionate about two things:

-His love for his family

-And his love for science and adventure

And while he can be little over-analytical, a little reserved at times, and have a bit of a one-mind track (so much so that he's been headcanon by just about everyone to be autistic), Reed overall is a very kind, caring and compassionate person.

Hell, he (along with the rest of the four) are some of the most morally righteous people in the Marvel Universe alongside Spider-Man and Captain America.

Now let's look at Fant4astic Reed....

Apart from being intelligent, level-headed and maybe curious, has none of the traits I just listed.

He's not adventurous.

He's not shown to be all that kind.

He has all the charisma of a funeral service.

And worst of all, he's not very passionate.

In the comics, Reed loves science and is always down to learn something new.

But the way Reed approaches science in the movie, it feels more like an obligation rather than something he's actually passionate about.

Next we have Sue.

Sue is pretty much the mother figure of the four.

Warm, caring, kind, mindful and responsible.

But she's also incredibly terrifying.

Sue's the most powerful member of the four and has proven to be a force to be reckon with for anyone who cares to hurt her family, especially her children.

Now let's look at Fant4astic Sue....

Well, how do l put this in the kindest way possible?

Yeah. Apart from being introverted, she's also shown to be incredibly sarcastic.

Like, modern animated adult comedy levels of being sarcastic.

And needlessly so.

Apart from still being responsible, Sue shows none of the traits I just listed.

The only character see isn’t needlessly sarcastic to is her and Johnny’s father, Franklin.

This version of the character is the walking definition of a killjoy.

Next we have her brother Johnny.

Johnny is the little brother of the group, since he’s the youngest.

He’s cocky, brash, hotheaded, a bit of a prankster, and kind of a showoff.

But in spite of that, Johnny is also a very kind and loyal individual.

The dude has been show that he’s willing to die for those he deeply cares for.

Now let’s look at Fant4stic Johnny.

Johnny is really the only character who somewhat resembles his original comic counterpart.

But even then, it still feels somewhat subdued.

Plus he has the same issue as Sue with him being needlessly a dick to people.

Like, Johnny had his dickish moments, but wasn't a massive asshole.

And plus, I should probably address the elephant in the room.

As you could probably tell for yourselves, Johnny here is African-American, making him and Sue adopted siblings.

And this would be the very first (and so far only) iterations of the Storm siblings who weren't blood-related.

And in all honesty, I'm not a fan of it.

Having Johnny and Sue not being biologically-related just feels wrong.

That would be like having Mario and Luigi not being related.

Or Goofy and Max.

Or Dante and Vergil.

Sometimes, you can't alter an important familial relationship.

As for why Johnny was made black while Sue wasn't.

Well....

Apparently, the Storm Family were all gonna be black, including Sue. But the higher-ups were not really onboard with Sue being black (I'm not even gonna try to make sense of that). But they were allowed to make Johnny and Franklin black. So thus, Sue ended up being adopted by the Storms.

And I must ask....

Why?

Why did they want to make the entire Storm family black?

I'm guessing it was to give a new fresh take on the characters.

But that's kind of debatable when we get to a point I'll bring up a little later.

And in terms of casting a black Johnny Storm, I don't think Michael B. Jordan was the best choice.

He just doesn't look like how most people would see Johnny as being black.

I think there's two reasons for that.

The hairstyle. Johnny has usually been depicted as having spiky hair. I think if had Michael those upward locs, then I could see him passing for a black Johnny.

The age of the actor. In fact, this applies to all the actors of the four as well. In the film, the four are said to be teenagers, specifically fresh out of high school age. So basically they would be around 17-18 years old. It's hard to see any of them as being around that age range when the actors who played them were, at the time of the film's release, two of them were 28, one of them was 29, and one of them was 32! Did they really just not bother to look for actors who were like college-aged?

Now we come to Ben.

Ben is undoubtedly most people's favorite member of the Fantastic Four.

While gruff, tough and a tad pessimistic and grumpy due to his circumstances, underneath Ben's rocky exterior beats a heart of gold.

He deeply cares for his friends and family and will go out of his way to protect them no matter what.

Now let's look at Fant4astic Ben.

Ben, being only rivaled by the next character we'll be talking about, is the character who barely resembles his original counterpart the most.

First, there's his appearance. Specifically before he became The Thing.

Out of this already not-good cast, Jaime Bell was probably the most miscasted of them all.

For starters, he just doesn't look like Ben Grimm at all.

Like, take a look at this guy and tell me that he looks remotely like the pre-Thing Ben in the comics.

Basically, Jaime suffers from the same problem that Topher Grace had when he played Venom.

He's too short. Ben, even before becoming The Thing, was usually depicted as being pretty tall, 6'0 to be exact. Jaime is 5'7. The dude is literally no taller than me (and I'm 5'8).

He's way too skinny. Once again, even before becoming The Thing, Ben is usually shown to be a pretty muscular-looking guy. He is canonically a skilled brawler (due to him being part of a street gang during his youth) and played on the football team in high school.

Essentially, even before becoming The Thing, Ben looked like a guy who could and can beat your ass.

This Ben looks like the guy who YOU would be beating the ass of!

Then there's his characterization.

This Ben has none of the traits I just mentioned.

Apart from being kind, he's typically portrayed as being soft-spoken and somewhat meek.

Which just don't fit the character of Ben Grimm at all.

But I think the worst part of his characterization is that he doesn't even have a Brooklyn accent!

Yeah! He doesn't have a Brooklyn accent! Despite it being one of the most famous elements of his character.

I'm the guy who think that a character should have their accent intact if they originally had it.

I'm one of the few people who find it kinda annoying that Black Widow doesn't speak with a Russian accent anymore despite speaking with one all-time in her appearances pre-MCU.

And I'm sure that I'm the only guy on the planet who actually wants Magneto to speak with a German accent.

But Ben not speaking with a Brooklyn accent feels both disgraceful and just plain wrong.

But perhaps the worst thing about this version of Ben is with his trademark catchphrase: It's Clobberin' Time!

In this film, they decided to give the catchphrase an origin.

Because we all know that what's the fans were certainly asking for it....

But anyway, in the Fant4stic continuity, It's Clobberin' Time was what Ben's abusive older brother who regularly beat him, would say right before kicking his ass!

Why?

Why was this added?

Who thought this was a good idea?

It adds nothing to this already nothing story.

Having Ben's catchphrase being the result of abuse from his older brother comes off as both incredibly fucked-up and like the rest of this cursed movie, unnecessarily tryhard.

The people who thought that giving this iconic catchphrase a gritty reason for existing need to get repeatedly smacked in the face.

But like I mentioned before, there's only one other character in the movie that rivals Ben in being the biggest spit in the face to their original counterpart.

But I'm gonna save that for next time.

Yeah, I'm gonna have to end this post right here since I'm pretty close to reaching the media post limit.

So this is gonna be a two-parter.

Wasn't the original intent, but hey, you can't win them all.

But tune in next time where I finish looking at this terrible movie.

And beware....I'm not gonna be very kind.

[thiccguyayan]

Our minds are racing and time’s going slow. 2025

[radfemmovierecs]

The Wild Robot Review

Happy Oscars Day! Since the Oscars are today, I decided to review one of my favorite nominated films for March, The Wild Robot. (Also the first animated film I’ve reviewed on this blog, fun!). When I think about all the movies I saw that came out in 2024, this is the only one that matters. Truly, one of the best films I’ve ever seen, both story wise and in technical execution. It’s based off a book of the same name (that’s actually a series! This is the first) and the director of this film, Chris Sanders, also made Lilo and Stitch and How to Train Your Dragon, so. I hate to admit that any man has talent, but Chris Sanders’ is undeniable.

The story follows a robot (Roz) who is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island. After accidentally becoming responsible for an orphaned baby goose, she must find a way to both survive alone herself and take of the goose while fulfilling her primary programming initiative, to complete all tasks assigned to her. The Wild Robot was nominated for three Oscars for the 2025 award show, Best Original Score, Best Sound, and Best Animated Feature. The director also confirmed in 2024 that a sequel to the film is in development.

            Two elements that I think are the most important when gauging if a story works or not are character and pacing. If the audience doesn’t care about your characters, the plot won’t matter, and no matter how great the characters and the plot are, if the pacing is bad, audiences will either get bored or be unable to keep up. This film does both excellently. Right away you’re intrigued about Roz and the other characters she meets, and you want to know what happens to them, and you stay invested in their stories. A story like this can easily fall flat on pacing, since the story is rather simple (it is based on a children’s book) but the film does a great job of keeping the audience engaged the entire time. The end is also incredibly heartbreaking (but optimistic!) so be warned (but just trust me). In addition to the pacing and the characters, the story itself is very well executed. It’s engaging, it’s emotional, and has strong themes about love and relationships, particularly between parents and children (also including adoption), personal growth, and also includes themes about the environment and climate change. I could rave about it forever, but I am trying to avoid spoilers, so I’ll stop there for now.

            Gotta have a whole separate section just dedicated to the music from this film. It’s absolutely incredible (I’m listening to the soundtrack as I type this lol). The music was composed by Kris Bowers, who has already established a career as a composer, but this film was my first exposure to his work, and I was absolutely blown away. For perspective, I saw this film in theaters in October of 2024, and one song from the soundtrack made it into my top five songs of 2024. It has remained in the top five (and moved up to the top three as well) so far for 2025. The music suits the film perfectly and enhances the story in the way a good score is supposed to do.

            In addition to story and music, as a former animation major and current VFX artist, I have to absolutely RAVE about the animation in the film, it’s absolutely incredible. The animation was designed to give a 2D textured look on 3D animation, and the film accomplishes this very well (this technique is really hard). The textures were also designed to look as if they had been hand-painted (most noticeable on the leaves in my opinion), and this gave the whole film a magical, ethereal look that was a joy to watch.

            One disappointing thing not about the film but related to it, was that when my friends and I left the theatre, my friend googled the film to see how it was made, and upon reading the Wikipedia article on the production, said that they “fed the images of the paintings into it to make the CGI look painted.” The Wikipedia article in question didn’t even mention AI, let alone say that the film was created using it. This is a DreamWorks movie. And when I tried to correct her, she said that she “assumes AI was used somewhere in the film.” People not believing in creativity or talent anymore was a depressing side effect of AI that I was not anticipating.

            Overall, I would HIGHLY recommend this film (seriously, I’ve recommended it to everyone I know in person since I saw it, and I did purchase it on DVD as soon as it was available). I cried in the theatre while watching it and I have no shame about it. Also, as a note, that as a Star Wars nerd I greatly enjoyed this film as there were both Mark Hamill AND Pedro Pascal in the cast, so that was very exciting. There were 1 out of 7 women in the credits, and the film is currently available to stream on Peacock, and it is available for purchase on DVD. Thanks for reading! Cross your fingers it wins some awards tonight, and happy Oscars day!

[digitalabhishekgupta]

Reliance Animation Academy Andheri – Why the BSc Degree in Animation Is Redefining Creative Education in 2025

1. Introduction: Why Reliance Animation Academy Andheri Is the First Choice for Creatives

As the demand for skilled creators in film, games, and digital media continues to grow, Reliance Animation Academy Andheri is shaping the future of animation education with its specialized BSc Degree in Animation.

Unlike traditional degrees, this program offers a dynamic and immersive learning environment where students develop real-world skills that directly translate into jobs. With the rise of OTT platforms, AR/VR tech, and digital storytelling, creative professionals are now more essential than ever.

If you’re a student looking to build a future in visual media, this course is designed for you.

2. The Shift from Traditional Degrees to Skill-Driven Learning

Conventional courses like B.A., B.Com, or B.Sc. offer a theoretical foundation, but they often leave students underprepared for modern industry demands. The limitations include:

Outdated syllabi

Minimal practical training

Lack of exposure to professional software

Weak placement outcomes

In contrast, animation courses in Andheri now offer a smarter choice—built around practical experience, cutting-edge tools, and portfolio development.

3. Inside the BSc Degree in Animation: Learn Like a Professional

The BSc Degree in Animation isn’t just about drawing or editing—it’s a complete professional training experience that covers:

Concept art and character design

2D/3D animation production

Digital filmmaking and cinematography

Game environment creation

AR/VR and immersive storytelling

Motion graphics and VFX fundamentals

Students use industry-standard software like Maya, Blender, Photoshop, After Effects, and Unreal Engine, placing this course among the most advanced animation classes in Andheri.

4. Career Outcomes: Where Can a BSc Degree in Animation Take You?

Graduates of this program are equipped for roles in diverse creative industries including:

3D Animator

VFX Artist

Motion Graphics Designer

Game Designer

AR/VR Content Developer

Storyboard Artist

Digital Illustrator

Graphic Designer

The curriculum is aligned with hiring needs in entertainment, marketing, gaming, education, and tech—placing students on a fast track to career success.

5. Studio Training and Internships: Experience That Sets You Apart

One of the biggest advantages at Reliance Animation Academy Andheri is its studio-based internship program. Students work on real projects, follow professional timelines, and receive feedback from industry mentors.

This type of experience is rare in academic institutions and offers a huge edge in competitive job markets��especially for those exploring vfx courses in Andheri or multimedia design careers.

6. A Global Career with Local Roots

The skills learned in this program go beyond borders. With the explosion of digital media and freelancing platforms, students can:

Work remotely for international studios

Launch careers in gaming, OTT, and mobile content

Build global portfolios from right here in Mumbai

This global reach, paired with hands-on studio experience, makes this course ideal for aspiring creators who want flexible, location-independent careers.

7. Why Students Are Choosing Reliance Animation Academy Andheri

Here’s what sets this academy apart:

Located in the media heart of Mumbai

Mentorship from working professionals

Real-time software training in animation and design

Access to multiple career tracks including graphic courses in Andheri, animation courses in Andheri, and vfx courses in Andheri

Dedicated support for internships and placements

Project-based learning and professional portfolio development

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[thehannibalextendeduniverse]

Mufasa

Watched this in theatres when it came out and, MADS. Bye bye/hej hej has been added to my hannibal playlist since then I can't-

Warning for spoilers ahead for the movie, if you haven't seen it yet.

(Notes I took on the movie as follows)

LMM music has a certain vibe to it you can just TELL it was him.

My god give me that quality in vr please this is more well rendered than my eyes.

You know the animators (? is that the write job title? might be something more vfx-specific) were so proud of this it had better win awards (ik a lot of people were saying it would have been better in the original style, and that would have also been great but those special effects... idk I'm a bit biased since my father worked vfx on this so, yk, but I do think it's incredible what they did)

Camera moves so fast though i want more time to take it in it needs to slow down

I like how self aware of the original movies and the musical it is, breaking the forth wall

The RHYME SCHEMES love them LMM is a genius (I stand by what I said)

The tunes are defo restricted by the style of music though

Nah that water is CLEAN how on earth is that rendered my god

I can imagine how fresh and cool that water would be i want to drink it so bad

Idk what it is but the scene changes feel weird the vibe is off - it’s too fast, feels like those weird ai vids where it moves fast to cover up the mistakes even though it isn’t (obvi)

Lake water is not that clear: unrealistic

Taka is a little bitch lmfao “You’re about to be eaten! :)” with a big smile bffr

Obasi is an asshole god i have never disliked a lion more

I hear the same chords as “unlimited” from wicked in the score for some reason

“I always wanted a brother” okay aww so cute Taka is so good and innocent as a cub

Music vibes feel very much correct for the culture and area, i like that they moved away from Westernisation of the music and made it more accurate/appropriate for what the film depicts

(Mads appeared at this point it the movie, in the tree during the "I always wanted a brother", as you can no doubt tell)

MADS

THE SKY THE STARS OH MY GOD THE GALAXIES GORGEOUS

Oh wow lion sexism

WITCHCRAFT (in reference to Mufasa's magic sense thingy)

The vultures/legal pun lol

Mads? Mads? Mads! MADS

The fact they based the look off of Mads (his. teeth. I. Cannot.)

Anyway. Mads. Mads. Mads.

He plays villains so well

Damn, vicious lionesses

I actually need Hannibal edited to Kiros’ lines like NEED

I’m so on Kiros’ side solely because of Mads

AHHHH MADS SINGING

BYE-BYE BITCH

HE WILL BE ON MY 2025 WRAPPED ISTG

I actually need a Hannibal edit to this song with murder on the “bye-bye” beat, like imagine Franklyn dropping as Mads/Kiros/Hannibal sings "bye bye" with his little smile omg someone talented PLEASE I BEG

I need the studio recording video for this. For research purposes.

The bye-bye is so cutesy awww

giggling and kicking my feet at each one of Mads’ lines

That bird has the same accent as Grian

Unrealistic, the baboon butts aren’t bare. Ive seen baboons. They’re more bare arse than baboon.

Okay rafiki is sassy pop off

The way Kiros’ lip pulls up in that snarl is so Mads (I might be a little obsessed)

Ugh the mountains are so beautiful

A cannibal in all worlds lmfao (Kiros saying he eats other lions, and ofc Hannibal)

They really enjoy their waterfall fades also the budget really went into the water for this huh

If that was a real place i would actually want to go cave diving there

(general notes)

THEY SHOULDNT HAVE DONE THE DISSOLVES LIKE THAT. Im sorry, whatever two scenes they go between tend to just be so drastically different it’s jarring. They should have lined them up better or used an object/motion for transition.

i do not get the hate for the music. I like it. I think it fits the film for what it is and what the intention behind it is.

I think people are comparing it to the original’s music and i don't think that’s a fair comparison. Could they have done a big number? yes. It is lacking there i will admit, no quintessential Disney 'big hit'. But the original was cartoonish, childish, with Westernised music. The big catchy numbers reflected that. This one wasn’t. The music reflects that.

i love the score in general though. There aren't many songs but i like all the music in the background of scenes. It fits.

I don't like how they ended Scar/Taka’s arc. It doesn't feel like you would naturally progress from where this film left off into what happened in the original. They should have done a proper big fight scene that would justify the rift between Taka and Mufasa better.