#this is as unique as the production of the lord of the rings movies

[leynaeithnea]

Thank you Jorge-Rivera-Herrans

I spend the past three hours obsessing over EPIC (again)

The storytelling is the most beautiful thing in existence.

When I say I love multimedia cinematic storytelling.

This.

This is what I mean.

The music

The lyrics

The vocalists

The audio design

The storytelling

The production

The passion of the creator

The fandom

The themes and questions of morality

The complex and lovable and hate-able characters

The animators incredibly talented visualizations

The fact that this is retelling a story that has been told for more than two thousand years and still keeps getting retold, people from different millennia and all centuries have listened to and read this story

Everything about this is the peak perfection of art, storytelling and the phenomenon when humans join forces brought together by a vision and passion and pouring their heart and souls into a project to create something that will be forever unique

I am so grateful to live during a time where this exists.

[scotianostra]

Happy Birthday Sam Roland Heughan, born 30th April 1980 in Balmaclellan, Dumfries and Galloway.

Sam got his name from the Lord of the Rings character Samwise Gamgee. his parents were big fans of the Tolkien books. He attended Kells Primary School in New Galloway before the family moved to Edinburgh when he was 12, he went to James Gillespie’s on the edge of the meadows before finishing his school education at the prestigious Rudolph Steiner School.

After leaving School at 18 Sam worked and travelled before returning to Scotland and enrolling in the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, graduating in 2003.

Sam built a solid career in theatre in both Scotland and England starring in productions of Plague Over England, Macbeth, The Talented Mr. Ripley, Amphibians, and King John. He has also been featured in notable indie films, Emulsion, and Heart Of Lightness but of course it is one particular role that has catapulted him into worldwide stardom, that of Jamie Fraser in Outlander.

For those who don’t know Outlander it follows the story of Claire Randall, a married combat nurse from 1945 who finds herself hurled back in time to the 1740’s in and around the time when The Jacobites and Bonnie Prince Charlie made the final ill fated attempt to put the Stuarts back on the throne. Sam plays Claire’s “love interest��� she is forced to marry. Further series are set in the US in the 1770’s, their remains a strong Scottish presence in the cast, and the show is filmed in studios in Cumbernauld. Sam has won a number of awards for the series.

In the movie To Olivia he played Hollywood star Paul Newman and in the adaptation of the Andy McNab book, SAS: Red Notice, he played SAS soldier Tom Buckingham. Oor birthdat boy also teamed up with fellow Outlander star Graham McTavish Men in Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham. The series follows the pair as they explore their homeland delving into the culture and history of Scotland, in a light-hearted way. The second series of the show aired last year, the reviews were mainly positive. The duo are already looking at a third journey, this time to North America but that will likely involve indulging Heughan's thrill-seeking side - much to his friend's dismay

Sam also appeared in the psychological series The Couple Next Door last year, I am yet to catch this, it has average reviews on IMDB of 5.6 out of ten. Born to be Great the story of Alexander The Great's early life has been completed but is yet to recieve a release date.

According to reports Sam celebrated his birthday in Edinburgh at the weekend while also running his My Peak Challenge which included workouts, outdoor activities and a gala night with dinner and dancing. He posted on Instagram describing the event as a 'unique blend of wellness, camaraderie, celebration and more'. The peakers, as they are known has raised millions for charities including Marie Curie.

[hel-the-growl]

Nezha Reborn annotations - Part 2

Part 1｜Part 3

Monkey asks Yunxiang whether his dad ever told him the story of Nezha conquering the dragon king when he was a kid. Most Chinese people will probably remember this story from the 1979 animation of the same title that was adapted from chapter 14 of Investiture of the Gods.

More product displacement: Smirnoff, what looks to be Suntory Royal and if you zoom in on the Jack Daniels, it reads “Made in Light Chaser” lol

Primordial Spirit or “god-body” is something you’ll see a lot in the New Gods universe. Known in Chinese as yuanshen (元神), it is a concept in Daoism defined to be a level of existence surpassing that of physical existence, capable of existing independently in the form of a soul. It is viewed to be the center and essence of a human's existence.

Monkey breaks the fourth wall

This quote comes from Liu An’s poem Nüwa mending the heavens (女娲补天), delivered Peking Opera style, down to the mannerisms. The caged bird could be a thrush or a lark. Bird keeping is a traditional hobby in Beijing that started in the Qing Dynasty and songbirds were usually kept in these cylindrical cages. 

I shouldn’t have laughed so hard when he accidentally killed the glasses monkey and continued his business like nothing happened.

“Fire imp” (葫芦老四) is the fourth of the seven Calabash Brothers, a classic Chinese cartoon from the 80s. Each bro has a unique power, and bro #4’s power is the ability to control fire. The snake demoness is an integral part of that story, so Light Chaser’s White Snake movies might actually be set in the same universe?????

Chan and Jie are religions featured in IOTG. Chan Daoism was founded by Yuanshi Tianzun (Primeval Lord of Heaven) and Laozi, and Yang Jian is one of its disciples. Jie is a fictional religion headed by Tongtian.

The most unfortunate character in this movie has got to be this monkey.

“Are your training methods even legit?”

Where did he get so much water? I thought water was being sanctioned.

RIP this monkey again.

He built his own version of Nezha’s spear.

The Six-Eared Macaque is arguably the most dangerous antagonist in Journey to the West. This deceptive creature impersonated Sun Wukong after the Monkey King abandoned his pilgrimage following a tiff with Tripitaka, with the impersonation so perfect, only Gautama Buddha and Diting could see through the pretense.

Nezha’s primordial spirit manifests as his three-headed, six-armed form.

Nezha is traditionally depicted with his four Astras - the Wind Fire Wheels (风火轮) under his feet, the Cosmic Ring (乾坤圈) around his body, the Sky Ribbon (浑天绫) around his shoulders and a Fire-tipped Spear (火尖枪) in his right hand.

This man has gills.

The Yaksa Li Gen is described as a lizard like creature with long mercury red hair, protruding fangs, and a face the color of indigo. (IOTG chapter 12).

Netflix's thirst trap of a thumbnail is from a scene that lasted ONE WHOLE SECOND.

It’s hilarious how this guy was just credited as “the traitor”.

The art deco style of the crystal palace 👌

In 2013, archaeologists unearthed a 1000 year old statue in Sichuan in that depicted a beast resembling a rhinoceros. This was believed to be the water-suppressing mythological beast Zhenshui Shenshou (镇水神兽) that was documented in the Biography of Shu Kings Written by Yang Xiong in Han Dynasty.

“I taught him? I don’t even have disciples! Stop joking.”

Dragons kind of have a low status in heaven (no matter how majestic they are, they are still beasts and all beasts are looked down upon by the gods), unlike in the mortal realm where they are revered.

Even in his dragon form, Ao Bing’s spinal column is supported by metal bracing.

Part 1｜Part 3

[mrschwartz]

hello can you spare a few minutes of your day to see me spiral about dune?

when dune part 1 came out in 2021 i didn't give it any fucking attention, i thought it was another overhyped blockbuster designed to fail (i didn't know it was directed by villeneuve, who i love) and i was sooo sick and tired of seeing timothée chalamet's face and hearing about him

well.

now part 2 came out and it instantly had 93% on rotten tomatoes and 4.5 on letterboxd and people called it a revolutionary cinematic achievement and i was like 😶 damn. maybe i was. cómo se dice. Wrong

so i watched part 1 in my home and i was Blown away by it. i didn't think it was possible for a movie to have cinematography and visual effects THIS good. the story was a little hard to follow but i took my time with it and allowed myself to go back whenever i pleased and wrote out the names and locations and motivations and it helped so much!!!! i fucking love it to bits, and i became so excited to watch part 2 (on a theater!!!!!!! i love going to the theater and i Knew part 2 would be a Theater Movie)

so. i watched part 2. and. i don't even know how to properly convey this but i feel like i had a religious experience in that movie theater. i genuinely feel like cinema was invented especifically so that one day this film could be made. like the entire 120 years of cinema we've had have all culminated in this

by far the BEST movie theater experience i've ever had and i'm soooooooooo invested in this story and the acting and (again) the cinematography and visual effects. what WAS that. i've never seen anything like it. like i'm aware it was a book before and a fucking revolutionary and influential one at that but to be Truly honest i had never even heard about it? like Now i know it inspired everything sci-fi related that came after it the same way lord of the rings inspired everything fantasy related that came after it. but genuinely i had never heard of it and i feel like that's such a shame

but at the same time i'm not sad about it at all bc i'm so glad i got to experience this film with fresh eyes and a fresh perspective and just allow myself to be blown away by it

i don't even have to say anything about the cinematography and the visual effects. we all know they're game changing and will be talked about for years to come bc For Sure they've now become a reference for what blockbusters should aim for at a Minimum

the soundtrack and the sound design. they sounded earth shattering in a cinemark xd movie theater so i cannot imagine what it must be like in imax (and i'm fucking Going to see it imax in the next couple of weeks if it kills me). they fit the movie perfectly and were detrimental for the immersion and the world building

the production and costume designs hello?????????????? they're so unique and so well done and so gorgeous and say so much about the story and the characters and help build the world and immerse the audience so much. everything is so thought out and lived in and just plain beautiful. damn

the screenplay. i'm such a sucker for political sci-fi stories but they're Very hard to pull off and most importantly they're very hard to convince me enough to suspend my disbelief. but this one. THIS ONE. the cautionary tale of a supposed messiah forced into this role that ends up usurping his power to lead the very people who believed in him into war and loss is so. SO poignant and so up my alley i can't believe i haven't seen More stories like it?? but truly how Can there be stories like it if this is one is so complex and so thought out and so satisfying to see unfold??? this feels like it was catered specifically to me, to what I like to see in storytelling and to How i like to see it being done

the acting. we got our zendayas and javier bardems and rebecca fergusons and austin butlers who all fill their roles beautifully and do a fucking A+ job at what they were Supposed to do. like i believed in them every step of the way, they truly were their characters and the movie only worked in huge part thanks to them

but

timothée chalamet. MAN. like i said i was never a huge fan of him and absolutely could not see the hype about him and was so tired of seeing his face everywhere. i truly thought before watching these films that he was cast as the protagonist just bc he's the perfect tolken conventionally cute/handsome young white boy but FUCK ME. fuck me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i'm now mesmerized by him. it was so so so important how he started out part 1 looking like this scrawny little boy who didn't know shit about the world. bc that gave him so much room to grow!!!!!!! his pain when having the dreams/visions and his conflict about being the duke's son and later on the supposed messiah, his want to feel a part of Something (and that something becoming the fremen), but later on evolving into this hunger for power and blood. god in the second half of the movie???? he's SO reverential and commanding and grandiose. the fucking way he holds a room in the palm of his hand is astounding, i genuinely didn't think he was capable of that. the way he carries his body and his voice!! the cadance he chose for his moments of imposing his messianic form onto the people is so on point. the scenes where he makes everyone kneel and bow for him made me cry out of sheer grandness of what i was witnessing. passionate cinema representing the journey of this pained boy who evolved into a godlike, tyranic status..............

i wanna live in this world a little longer. all i wanna do is rewatch it and read about it and watch about it and talk about it.

denis villeneuve. the man that you are

[the-monkey-ruler]

Journey to the West (2012) 西游记

Director: Zhang Jianya Screenwriter: Gao Dayong / Lang Xuefeng / Huang Yonghui / Liu Yi Starring: Wu Yue / Nie Yuan / Zang Jinsheng / Xu Jinjiang / Wang Jiusheng / Liu Tao Genre: Action / Fantasy / Adventure / Costume Country/Region of Production: Mainland China Language: Mandarin Chinese Date: 2012-01-30 (Mainland China) Number of episodes: 60 Single episode length: 45 minutes Also known as: New Journey to the West / 西遊記 / 新西游记 / Journey to the West 2011 IMDb: tt2240929 Type: Retelling

Summary:

The new version of "Journey to the West" won unanimous praise from the audience with its new special effects production and unique and profound plot interpretation. The show used Hollywood-style special effects to create effects that the old version of "Journey to the West" failed to achieve. The producer Ma Zhongjun once Revealed: "We invested more than 100 million, most of which went to the stunt team." In order to let the audience experience the "generous" effect of domestic TV series, producer Zhang Jizhong specially edited a condensed movie version for this screening event.

According to Zhang Jizhong, the chief producer of the new "Journey to the West", the reason why the new "Journey to the West" has entered the audience's attention with such a high profile is actually to spread the culture of "Journey to the West" again. The reason why he chose to re-shoot "Journey to the West" was because he wanted to use this version of "Journey to the West" to reflect and convey the unique and charming essence of Chinese Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism in the original "Journey to the West", and this selected editing. The movie version of "Journey to the West" is also another inheritance of Journey to the West culture.

The reason why the 2011 large-scale mythological and magical masterpiece "Journey to the West" is called the new "Journey to the West" is that compared with the old version of "Journey to the West" filmed by CCTV in 1986, the total investment of the new "Journey to the West" exceeds 100 million. The whole drama is faithful to the original work to a great extent while adding a lot of computer stunts. It is known as the Chinese version of "The Lord of the Rings".

The new version of "Journey to the West" is currently being broadcast on local TV stations in Beijing. The mystery of Sun Wukong, played by Wu Yue, has also been unveiled. His straightforward, cute, witty and humorous, competitive, and humane interpretation has been well received by the audience. The most exciting part of the new version of "Journey to the West" is that it focuses on showing the essence of the original work, that is, the growth of Sun Wukong, using a more humane way to show his innocence, invasion of evil spirits, inner wrestling, putting aside his inner demons, and finally returning to his true nature. The free process is also the biggest difference between it and previous versions. In the parts that have been aired, the familiar scenes such as the birth of the stone monkey, the apprenticeship, and the havoc in heaven have appeared one by one. The aggressive and ignorant impulses of the "rebellious period" have resonated with many viewers.

"This is an expression of Sun Wukong's human nature. The old version of Sun Wukong has been recognized by generations as a classic. I am not trying to surpass or break through it again, but I hope to perform different parts. I think this version of Sun Wukong is very good in performance. The biggest difference is the humanity." said Wu Yue, who plays Sun Wukong. In addition, Zhu Bajie played by Zang Jinsheng, Tang Seng played by Nie Yuan, and Sha Wujing played by Xu Jinjiang also have new performances.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journey_to_the_West_(2011_TV_series)

Link: https://kissasian.cz/info/journey-to-the-west-2011-

[agentnico]

Werewolf by Night (2022) Review

Anyone else agree the Marvel Studios logo is super indulgent? Their title card before each film/tv show is over 30 seconds long as is, and additionally in Werewolf by Night the Marvel Studios logo is shown three times - first comes “Marvel Studios Special Presentation”, then followed by the usual half-a-minute title logo and then straight away ‘Marvel Studios Presents’. Like yes, we get it, you guys are a big deal. So much so that you have managed to get away with making a load of content after Avengers: Endgame and most of it being a pile of sh**, yet still make the dollar. Yep, I said it. Get your act together Feige. When’s that Deadpool/Wolverine crossover scheduled for? 

Plot: On a dark and sombre night, a secret cabal of monster hunters emerge from the shadows and gather at the Bloodstone Temple following the death of their leader; the attendees are thrust into a mysterious and deadly competition for a powerful relic.

So following my little rant at the beginning of this review about how bad Phase 4 of the MCU has been, Werewolf by Night is actually quite good. Yep, talk about smooth transitions. My point is though what makes this Disney+ offering stand out is that it shows that the folks at Marvel are at least trying to attempt something different here. A call-back to the 30s/40s era of Universal monster movies, with the black-and-white grainy filter and over-the-top characters and featuring, well, monsters. 

Interestingly enough this also happens to be the directorial debut of Michael Giacchino. For those wondering why that name may sound familiar, this cool geezer *never will I ever use the word ‘geezer’ again, that felt weird and peculiar territory which I will never tread towards ever again, I do apologise*, any way, so this cool Giacchino dude is the man that’s been composing all the cool blockbuster movies that Hans Zimmer hasn’t for the past few years. Like this fella’s done it all - think Star Trek, think Planet of the Apes, think Star Wars, think Pixar, Jurassic World, Batman, fricking Cars 2! What hasn’t this guy composed!? Well, the Lord of the Rings fan within me acknowledges he never did any Middle Earth music, but let’s be honest, who would dare compete with Howard Shore! Ah just remember when Aragorn, Frodo and the fellowship walk through the misty mountains towards Caradhras as Shore plunges his orchestra to the mighty depths of Khazad-Dum and you can feel the instruments literally burning the atmosphere with its mastery!!! Sorry, I’ve recently been thinking of rewatching the Lord of the Rings trilogy, so I’m a bit in the zone. 

Anyway, that Giacchino guy, what did he do? Well, he directed Werewolf by Night and you can tell a composer directed this project, as the use of sound and music to build up tension and build to the bigger moments in the scenes here could have only been accomplished by a man with a very acute sense of hearing. And overall Giacchino seems to be a fan of those aforementioned monster movies. The use of retro style smoke and mirrors, cigarette burns and the use of practical effects, especially for the main werewolf that is evidently inspired by The Wolf Man, however I couldn’t unsee Nicholas Hoult’s Beast from the X-Men movies. It all does look really cool, and very unique, and though it never hits the cheesy level high’s of those original monster movies such as Dracula and Frankenstein, it’s a very unique direction for a Marvel production. I have also seen many other reviews mention how this is a gorier MCU outing, and I can see where they are coming from, but due to the use of black and white they are able to get away with it, as you don’t see any blood colours. As such its pretty harmless in that regard.

I enjoyed Werewolf by Night. Gael Garcia Bernal brings his usual likeable relatable vulnerability to the lead role, and Michael Giacchino exhibits qualities of a filmmaker who actually cares to bring something different to the table, yet not afraid to take inspiration from previous great works. Heck, where other Marvel projects would try to go bigger, Giacchino opts to go smaller. When the transformation of the werewolf occurs, he does so off-screen, and the camera instead slowly zooms closer and closer on the face of the terrified Elsa (played by Laura Donnelly) as we see only the shadowy silhouette of the man turning into a monster. It’s a neat trick that really heightens the tension and anticipation… and when we finally do see the werewolf, we then can enjoy a very satisfying rampage. But perhaps the biggest treat is Harriet Sansom Harris as Verusa, Ulysses’ widow and the night’s master of ceremonies, delivering an over-the-top performance that gives the whole affair huge theater-kid energy. Then again, there’s also a character named Ted in this thing, and he’s an example of comedy in Marvel done right. But no spoilers, if you’re wondering about who Ted is, you’re just going to have to go and watch Werewolf by Night.

Overall score: 7/10

[wizard-pilled]

Appreciation for the film production of Lord of the Rings

What these movies do is attract both lotr book nerds and film/production/technical theater majors. Not only is the story portrayed very well for being based off a book, but the way these producers and designers bring it to life on big screen is incredible. I reccoemend that you watch the behind the scenes of these films. It really puts into perspective how much hard work, time and dedication was put into this film series. Yes, you can tell that they had a massive budget, but this movie is very ahead of its time. I specifically want to talk about the costume design as I am majoring in technical theater with a concentration of costume design.

The detail was absolutely incredible, especially considering the amount of costumes they had to create for the whole film, including all of the extras. Listening to the costume designer, Ngila Davidson, explain her ideas and visions being brought to life is the most wonderful and inspiring thing. The seaming/costume production crew ungodly hours, to add all of those embroidered details and tiny tiny beads really makes you appreciate the blood sweat and tears that made this production. Seeing the vibrant colors on what you can tell are very heavy fabrics is mind blowing to me because you know that shit was pricy. The unique use of layering and embellishments really brought a mystical and lively vibe that I think about so much and want to add in every mystical piece I make in the future. I’m just obsessed with the design of this movie series man, the props, the set, the costumes, the design; just everything.

The set is really pretty, especially the fact that the hobbit houses and land of Hobbiton in general was mostly shot in real life, not using cgi (I always have deep appreciation of movies that go beyond CGI and use natural set). I could literally look at that set all fucking day!! It’s especially really cool how they created it, just from a simple concept (you can watch all of the behind the scenes and production notes on YouTube :)) Why cant this place be real! Why cant I live in a little hobbit hole and go on dangerous adventures with cool wizards?!! Why am I stuck in the harsh reality of America!!!!!!!!!

Anyways, below are some of my favorite costumes, props and concept art created by the designers :))

*Note: I’m looking at the pictures now and idk why the quality is so terrible, you can google it if you want a more clear idea of how sick some of these costumes are >:)

[rowan-noah]

The Pinnacle of 3D Animation: Top Companies Leading the Way

3D animation has revolutionized the way we experience visual storytelling, creating immersive worlds and lifelike characters that captivate audiences across the globe. The magic of 3D animation lies in its ability to bring intricate details to life, making it a cornerstone of the entertainment, advertising, gaming, and educational industries. In this blog, we will explore the top 3D animation companies that offer exceptional services, including Vee Technologies, and discuss the innovations and projects that make them stand out.

The Rise of 3D Animation

The journey of 3D animation began in the late 20th century, with significant milestones like Pixar’s “Toy Story” (1995), the first fully 3D animated feature film. Since then, 3D animation has advanced tremendously, driven by technological innovations and creative visionaries. Today, 3D animation is not only a medium for entertainment but also a powerful tool for marketing, education, and beyond.

Top 3D Animation Companies

1. Pixar Animation Studios

Overview

Pixar Animation Studios is synonymous with groundbreaking 3D animation. Founded in 1986, Pixar has set the benchmark for storytelling, character development, and technical innovation.

Key Services

Feature Films: Creating visually stunning and emotionally resonant movies.

Short Films: Producing award-winning animated shorts.

Character Development: Crafting detailed and relatable characters.

Technological Innovation: Pioneering new animation techniques and software.

Notable Projects

Pixar’s illustrious portfolio includes “Toy Story,” “Finding Nemo,” “The Incredibles,” and “Coco.”

2. DreamWorks Animation

Overview

DreamWorks Animation is a powerhouse in the 3D animation industry, known for its diverse and entertaining films that appeal to a broad audience.

Key Services

Feature Films: Creating blockbuster animated movies.

TV Series: Producing engaging animated series.

Special Effects: Providing high-quality visual effects for films and TV.

Character Animation: Designing iconic and memorable characters.

Notable Projects

DreamWorks has produced hits like “Shrek,” “Kung Fu Panda,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” and “Trolls.”

3. Vee Technologies

Overview

Vee Technologies is a top 3D animation services company known for its innovative approach and high-quality output. Their comprehensive range of services caters to a diverse clientele, ensuring each project meets the highest standards.

Key Services

3D Modeling: Creating detailed and realistic 3D models.

Animation Production: Delivering high-quality animations for various applications.

Character Design: Developing unique and engaging characters.

Visual Effects: Providing cutting-edge visual effects.

Notable Projects

Vee Technologies has worked on numerous projects across industries, showcasing their versatility and expertise. Their portfolio includes animations for marketing campaigns, educational content, and entertainment.

4. Blue Sky Studios

Overview

Blue Sky Studios, now a subsidiary of Disney, has made a significant impact with its unique style and engaging stories.

Key Services

Feature Films: Creating visually impressive animated movies.

Short Films: Producing charming and innovative shorts.

Character Design: Developing distinctive and beloved characters.

Visual Effects: Offering cutting-edge visual effects for various projects.

Notable Projects

Notable films include “Ice Age,” “Rio,” and “Ferdinand.”

5. Weta Digital

Overview

Weta Digital is renowned for its work in visual effects and animation, bringing some of the most epic cinematic experiences to life.

Key Services

Visual Effects: Creating realistic and immersive visual effects.

Character Animation: Crafting lifelike and expressive characters.

Motion Capture: Utilizing advanced motion capture technology.

Environment Creation: Building intricate and detailed virtual environments.

Notable Projects

Weta Digital’s standout projects include “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, “Avatar,” and “Planet of the Apes.”

6. Industrial Light & Magic (ILM)

Overview

Founded by George Lucas, ILM is a pioneer in the field of visual effects and animation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Key Services

Visual Effects: Creating groundbreaking visual effects.

Character Animation: Developing realistic and dynamic characters.

Environment Creation: Crafting detailed and immersive environments.

Technological Innovation: Pioneering new techniques and tools.

Notable Projects

ILM’s iconic works include “Star Wars,” “Jurassic Park,” “The Avengers,” and “Transformers.”

7. Sony Pictures Imageworks

Overview

Sony Pictures Imageworks is known for its innovative animation and visual effects, contributing to numerous blockbuster films and animated features.

Key Services

Feature Films: Producing high-quality animated movies.

Visual Effects: Creating stunning visual effects for live-action films.

Character Animation: Crafting expressive and memorable characters.

Technological Innovation: Developing new animation tools and techniques.

Notable Projects

Notable films include “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs,” and “The Angry Birds Movie.”

8. Animal Logic

Overview

Animal Logic is a leading animation and visual effects studio, known for its high-quality work and creative excellence.

Key Services

Feature Films: Creating visually captivating, animated movies.

Visual Effects: Offering top-notch visual effects for live-action films.

Character Design: Developing unique and engaging characters.

Animation Production: Delivering high-quality animation for various platforms.

Notable Projects

Animal Logic’s standout projects include “The LEGO Movie,” “Happy Feet,” and “Peter Rabbit.”

9. Moving Picture Company (MPC)

Overview

MPC is a top 3D animation services company renowned for its work in visual effects and animation, contributing to some of the most visually stunning films.

Key Services

Visual Effects: Creating photorealistic visual effects.

Character Animation: Crafting lifelike and dynamic characters.

Environment Creation: Building detailed and immersive virtual environments.

Animation Production: Providing high-quality animation for various media.

Notable Projects

Notable works include “The Jungle Book,” “The Lion King,” “Harry Potter” series, and “X-Men” series.

10. Framestore

Overview

Framestore is a leading visual effects and animation studio known for its creative storytelling and technical excellence.

Key Services

Visual Effects: Creating award-winning visual effects.

Character Animation: Developing realistic and expressive characters.

Virtual Reality: Pioneering VR experiences.

Animation Production: Delivering high-quality animation for films and TV.

Notable Projects

Framestore’s acclaimed projects include “Gravity,” “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Paddington,” and “Fantastic Beasts” series.

The Future of 3D Animation

The future of 3D animation is bright, with continuous advancements in technology and increasing demand for high-quality animated content. Here are some trends and developments to watch:

1. Real-Time Rendering

Real-time rendering is transforming the animation industry, allowing for faster production times and more interactive content. This technology is particularly beneficial for gaming and virtual reality applications.

2. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

VR and AR are expanding the possibilities for 3D animation, enabling immersive experiences that engage users in new and exciting ways. Animators are exploring these technologies to create interactive and lifelike environments.

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning are being integrated into animation workflows, enhancing the efficiency and creativity of the production process. These technologies can automate repetitive tasks, allowing animators to focus on the artistic aspects of their work.

4. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

As the animation industry becomes more conscious of its environmental impact, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable practices. Digital workflows and eco-friendly production methods are being adopted to reduce the carbon footprint of animation projects.

Conclusion

3D animation has fundamentally transformed visual storytelling, delivering immersive experiences and lifelike characters that captivate audiences globally. Its magic lies in bringing intricate details to life, making it indispensable in entertainment, advertising, gaming, and education. Looking ahead, the future of 3D animation promises even more exciting developments with real-time rendering, VR and AR, AI integration, and sustainable practices. These trends will continue to push the boundaries of creativity and efficiency, ensuring that 3D animation remains a cornerstone of visual storytelling for years to come.

[paranoidandroidofficial]

First Impression: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy by Kanye West

[Alright, two notes before we start... you only have to pay attention to the first note, the second one's just a funny observation I made related to this specific review and the ones before it. First note: I didn't pay too much attention to the lyrics on this album. I know that in a genre where the lyrics are kind of the main appeal, reviewing an album without truly understanding what the artist is saying might be bad, but these first impressions are more casual, and casually, I normally gravitate towards the music first, so... sorry. I did pay attention to the production, which you will be hearing about. And second note: it's so funny to me that after reviewing 2 of the most acclaimed pieces of progressive rock ever made, the thing I decide to review next is fuckin' Kanye West. That's basically the equivalent of reviewing the entire Lord of the Rings trilogy, and then making your next review about The LEGO Movie; they're both great things, but a switch like that is fucking crazy.]

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is... well... it's certainly not a 6/10. I feel like it's just an 8/10. Here's why.

Like I said in my notes, I didn't pay too much attention to the lyrics on this album, so I don't think I can speak on those too much, but what I will say is that Kanye raps about himself a lot on this album, and not in a normal rap way like bragging or telling the story of how he made it from the bottom to the top, but in a kind of "I've got a lot to get off my chest" kind of way. If I listened to it again and focused on the lyrics more, I could probably pinpoint what I do and don't like about these lyrics, but at the moment, I only have a basic understanding of Kanye's words here, which I don't think is enough to speak on these lyrics in any meaningful way. I will say though, I didn't hear any goofy bars that ruined the emotion of a track, so I feel like the lyrics are mostly good.

I'll be honest here, and say that the production on this album is great. The beats on here are unique, and they sound really good. "Runaway" has a catchy beat, with that piano line forever looping over and over again. "POWER" samples the opening track to "In the Court of the Crimson King", with... varying results. The (21st century schizoid man) at the end of the chorus is fantastic, but the gratuitous panning on the sample during the "and they say, and they say" portion did not feel good. "Dark Fantasy" has a heavenly opening (after we hear something about twisted fiction or something idk), which transitions into a kind of traditional-ish hip-hop beat, which transitions back into the opening part. It's great. There wasn't a single song that had bad production, and besides the "and they say" part mentioned above, there wasn't a single bad moment in the production... but there also wasn't many super high points. There's Runaway, of course, and the opening to "Dark Fantasy", but after that... the rest of the production feels more "Wow, that's great!" and not "WAIT, DID HE JUST DO THAT?!". It's great but not mind-blowing, is what I'm saying.

And lastly, the features. For the most part, the features did good. They never ruined a song, and 1 of them took their respective song to the next level (of course, we're talking about Pusha T on Runaway, that man killed it there), but most of them were just OK.

The production made the album for me. Plus, since I didn't wanna pull a fantano and give this a 6, I decided to give it extra points for how solid it's tracklist is. The only 3 songs that I didn't think were that great were So Appalled (might just be because i kinda zoned out for that one sorry), and the closing duo of Lost in the World and Who Will Survive In America (mostly the latter track). The rest of the tracklist was great. It's an 8/10, but I gotta focus on the lyrics next time.

How Likely Is a Follow Up? 4. Like I said, I gotta re-do this once I do focus on the lyrics, but I might just do a second first impression-styled review once I do focus on the lyrics.

[denimbex1986]

'Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer is the frontrunner for winning Best Picture at the 2024 Academy Awards for a number of reasons. As Nolan's 12th feature film, Oppenheimer has become the most critically acclaimed movie of his career, earning a staggering 13 Oscar nominations in many of the major categories, including Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Cinematography, Best Original Score, and Best Picture. Despite being personally nominated for 8 Oscars for his previous films such as Memento (2000), Inception (2010), and Dunkirk (2017), Christopher Nolan has yet to win an Academy Award in any category as of the time of writing.

Aside from earning its prestigious Rotten Tomatoes score of 93%, nearly tying Memento and The Dark Knight (2008) for his highest-rated movie of all time (94%), Oppenheimer was a summer 2023 box office blockbuster, earning nearly $1 billion worldwide. Nolan's work has been celebrated for decades as being some of the most innovative and intellectually stimulating films ever created. His unparalleled ambition and masterful directorial abilities seem to have finally received the credit that they deserve from the Academy, now more than ever with the potential for Oppenheimer to sweep the 2024 Oscars in all of the major categories.

8. Oppenheimer Is A Brilliant Reinvention Of The Biopic Genre

Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer screenplay is revolutionary

Christopher Nolan is known best for his directorial accolades, but his exceptional skill as a screenwriter still somehow feels overshadowed by the visual magnitude of his own movies. Nolan wrote the adapted screenplay for Oppenheimer based on the biography "American Prometheus" written by Kai Bird and Martin Sherwin, adding unique stylistic elements such as breaking the movie into two intertwining parts, "Fision" and "Fusion", to align with the nuclear themes of the film. Nolan also wrote the screenplay entirely in the first person, which is an incredibly rare deviation from the standard screenplay format that seemingly only he, and a few others, could pull off.

7. Oppenheimer Has The Most Oscar Nominations In 2024

Oppenheimer leads with 13 total nominations

The most glaring predictor of Oppenheimer's Best Picture success is based on its volume of nominations. Nolan's film has amassed a staggering 13 total nominations at the 2024 Academy Awards, a number only surpassed by three films with 14 nominations in the entire history of the Oscars. Those films were All About Eve (1950), La La Land (2016), and Titanic (1999). With 13 Oscar nominations, Oppenheimer joins the elite ranks of Gone with the Wind (1939), Shakespeare in Love (1998), Forrest Gump (1994), Chicago (2002), Mary Poppins (1964), The Lord of the Rings (2001), The Shape of Water (2017), and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008).

6. Oppenheimer Is Christopher Nolan's Most Deserving Best Picture Winner

Oppenheimer is arguably the greatest film of Nolan's career

Christopher Nolan is famous for making larger-than-life movies such as Inception and Interstellar, but Oppenheimer combines some of the greatest aspects of his exceptional filmography and wraps them into one powerful and explosive final product. The magnitude and scope of Interstellar, the gritty realism of Dunkirk, the intensity of The Dark Knight, the sharp writing of Memento, the richly complex plot of Inception, and the nuanced characters of The Prestige, all feel directly incorporated into the creation of Oppenheimer. Nolan deserves Best Picture, and Best Director for that matter, for Oppenheimer but also implicitly for his remarkable filmography.

5. Oppenheimer's Performances Elevate The Story To New Heights

Many A-list actors make brief appearances in Oppenheimer

One of the joys of watching Oppenheimer for the first time was recognizing all of the incredible actors that were a part of the robust cast, including Oscar winner Casey Affleck's short cameo in the 3-hour-long movie. Oppenheimer unquestionably has the greatest ensemble in any movie from 2023, with an excess of leading actors appearing in various supporting roles. Some of the actors include Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr., Florence Pugh, Kenneth Branagh, Rami Malek, Gary Oldman, Jason Clarke, Josh Hartnett, Dane DeHaan, Josh Peck, and Benny Safdie, which adds to the overall prestige of the film.

4. Oppenheimer’s Lack Of CGI Is A Marvelous Feat Of Cinematic History

Nolan claims that no CGI was used to make Oppenheimer

Outside of creating some of the most ambitious movies ever made, Nolan's filmmaking approach is also groundbreaking in his ability to make Oppenheimer with zero CGI elements. As a devout supporter of the traditional filmmaking approach that shoots exclusively on film, Nolan is perhaps the only person on Earth who can make epics such as Oppenheimer shooting entirely on film and without visual enhancements. He is so trusted by the major studios, particularly Universal who distributed Oppenheimer, that they will forego the additional costs of production that come from shooting on film, granting him privileges that virtually no other filmmaker alive has.

3. Oppenheimer’s Sharp Editing & Pace Makes It Seem Shorter Than 3 Hours

Oppenheimer's dialogue-heavy script still flies by

Another cinematic feat of Oppenheimer is its ability to seemingly make 30 minutes disappear while watching it. Any 3-hour film, especially in a theater, feels like a chore that requires some endurance to get through, but Oppenheimer feels much shorter than its runtime due to its masterful editing and efficient pace. Oppenheimer's editor Jennifer Lame, who has also worked on the celebrated films Marriage Story (2019), Hereditary (2018), and Manchester by the Sea (2016), deserves the Best Editing Oscar for this reason. Similarly, Killers of the Flower Moon archives a similar feat with its 3-hour, 26-minute runtime.

2. Oppenheimer’s Original Score Is A Career Best For Ludwig Göransson

Oppenheimer's score is one of the most memorable parts of the film

Ludwig Göransson is one of the greatest living composers working today and has already won an Oscar for his work on Black Panther (2018) as well as two Emmys for The Mandalorian. A longtime collaborator with Donald Glover's musical persona Childish Gambino, Göransson has arguably created the best original score of his career thus far with his effort in Oppenheimer. Nolan's film is made even better through Göransson's iconic and powerful contribution that elevates every aspect of the film, which is made even more impressive considering the caliber of Nolan's previous composer, Hans Zimmer.

1. Oppenheimer Won Best Picture At Golden Globes & Critics Choice Awards

Oppenheimer is a huge favorite to win Best Picture at the Oscars

Oppenheimer is on a hot streak coming off Best Picture wins at the Golden Globes and the Critics Choice Awards, and is a heavy favorite for Best Picture at the Oscars. With the building momentum throughout the awards season, it would be quite shocking to see Oppenheimer lose steam heading into the 2024 Academy Awards in March. While Golden Globe winners do not always indicate the Best Picture Oscar winners, Nomadland went on to win Best Picture at all three awards ceremonies in 2020, as did 12 Years A Slave in 2013 and Argo in 2012. With so much going for Nolan's Oppenheimer, it should provide the acclaimed director's first Best Picture Oscars win.'

[atanimation]

The Lord of the Rings (1978)

"The Lord of the Rings" (1978) is an animated fantasy film directed by Ralph Bakshi, released on November 15, 1978. The film covers the first half of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic trilogy, "The Fellowship of the Ring" and part of "The Two Towers." Notable for its unique animation style, which combines traditional hand-drawn animation with the rotoscoping technique, the movie follows Frodo Baggins and his diverse group of companions on a perilous quest to destroy the One Ring. While the film received mixed reviews for its incomplete adaptation and unconventional visuals, it has gained a cult following over the years, appreciated for its experimental approach and as a distinctive representation of Tolkien's work during the 1970s. The film features an ensemble cast, including Christopher Guard as Frodo Baggins, William Squire as Gandalf, and John Hurt as Aragorn. The voice acting, combined with the rotoscoping technique, contributes to the film's distinctive atmosphere.

Technique

The film is notable for its unique animation style, utilizing a combination of traditional hand-drawn animation and a process called rotoscoping. Rotoscoping involves tracing over live-action footage, providing a distinctive and sometimes surreal visual effect. Much of the film's animation was created using traditional hand-drawn animation techniques. Artists created the characters and scenes frame by frame through drawing and painting. A significant and distinctive aspect of the film's animation was the use of rotoscoping. This technique involves tracing over live-action footage frame by frame. The live-action sequences were filmed, and then animators traced over the frames to create the animated characters. This process gave the film its unique visual style. The rotoscoping process began with live-action footage of actors performing the scenes. This footage was then projected frame by frame onto an animation table, and animators traced over each frame to create the animated characters. This process allowed for a more realistic and detailed movement of characters. The film features an ensemble cast, including Christopher Guard as Frodo Baggins, William Squire as Gandalf, and John Hurt as Aragorn. The voice acting, combined with the rotoscoping technique, contributes to the film's distinctive atmosphere.

The credits of a film typically include information about key personnel involved in the production. In the case of "The Lord of the Rings" (1978), you might find credits for the director (Ralph Bakshi), animators, artists, voice actors, and other key roles. Look for mentions of animation directors, animators, and technical directors. These roles can provide insights into the specific animation techniques used. The credits may also mention any special processes or technologies employed in the production. In this case, the use of rotoscoping might be acknowledged. While the credits may not provide an exhaustive technical breakdown, they can offer valuable information about the individuals and roles involved in the production. For more detailed insights into the production methods, you might need to refer to interviews, documentaries, or behind-the-scenes features related to the making of the film, if available.

Representation

"The Lord of the Rings" (1978) depicts the first part of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy trilogy of the same name. The film primarily focuses on "The Fellowship of the Ring" and covers the journey of Frodo Baggins, a young hobbit, who is entrusted with the task of destroying the One Ring. The One Ring, created by the dark lord Sauron, holds immense power and threatens to bring about the destruction of Middle-earth. Frodo is joined by a diverse group of characters, including Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Boromir, and Gandalf, forming the Fellowship of the Ring. Together, they embark on a perilous journey across various lands, facing challenges and encounters with creatures both benevolent and malevolent. Their ultimate goal is to reach the volcanic Mount Doom, where the One Ring must be destroyed to prevent Sauron from conquering Middle-earth. The film introduces viewers to the rich and intricate world of Middle-earth, complete with different races, cultures, and landscapes. It explores themes of friendship, courage, and the struggle against dark forces. While the 1978 animated adaptation covers only part of the trilogy, it captures the essence of the epic quest and sets the stage for the larger conflict portrayed in J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece.

The Struggle Against Evil: At its core, the story is about the struggle against the forces of darkness and evil, represented by Sauron and the One Ring. It emphasizes the importance of resisting and overcoming evil even in the face of overwhelming odds. The Power of Friendship and Fellowship: The formation of the Fellowship of the Ring symbolizes the strength that comes from diverse individuals working together toward a common goal. The bonds of friendship and fellowship are central to the characters' ability to confront and withstand the challenges they encounter.

The Hero's Journey: Frodo's journey is a classic hero's journey, where he undergoes personal growth and transformation. The film portrays the challenges, sacrifices, and self-discovery that come with being a hero.

The Corrupting Influence of Power: The One Ring is a symbol of corrupting power. It tempts individuals with the promise of great power but ultimately corrupts and consumes those who possess it. This theme explores the dangers of unchecked ambition and the corrupting influence of power.

Environmental Stewardship: The story highlights the importance of protecting the natural world. The destruction caused by Sauron and the impact of the One Ring on the land underscore the theme of environmental stewardship and the consequences of neglecting the balance of nature.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity: The characters face numerous challenges and setbacks, but their resilience and determination to carry on despite adversity convey a message of hope and perseverance.

Reception

"The Lord of the Rings" (1978) was shown in theaters as a feature-length animated film. The film was presented on the big screen using traditional film projection methods. The film received mixed reviews upon its release in 1978. While some praised its ambition in adapting J.R.R. Tolkien's complex work, others criticized it for various reasons. Common criticisms included the film covering only part of the trilogy, leaving the story incomplete, and the abrupt ending. Some viewers found the rotoscoping technique to be unconventional and polarizing. Over the years, "The Lord of the Rings" (1978) has gained a cult following. Some appreciate it for its unique animation style and the ambitious attempt to bring Tolkien's work to the screen in the 1970s. It has nostalgic value for those who encountered it during their childhood. However, the film is generally not considered a definitive or comprehensive adaptation of Tolkien's masterpiece.

References

[ellie-bygrave]

Intertextuality: Is anything truly unique?

Intertextuality describes the way in which texts are interconnected with one another, affecting each other through purposeful or accidental referencing and borrowing. The term was first used by Julia Kristeva in the 1960s, who theorised that no text could be fully understood without an understanding of how it related to other texts (Alfaro, 1996)(Irwin, 2004).

The discussions around intertextuality often come back to the question of "is anything truly unique?" Some, including J. R.R Tolkein, argue that there are no new stories; everything that is written is a product of parts of other works that we have absorbed and repurposed for our own stories (Cairney, 1990). I personally am in agreement that everything we create is somewhat shaped or inspired by the work of others, whether intentionally or not. However, I also believe that it is still possible to create original works from this.

Take, for example, the trope of a princess locked away in a tower guarded by a dragon. In the story of Sleeping Beauty, the prince comes to rescue her, they fall in love, and live happily ever after. When boiled down to the main plot points, we can see that Shrek is not too dissimilar from this. Shrek, albeit not a prince, braves the dragon's fire in order to rescue the princess Fiona from a tower. They then (eventually) fall in love and live happily ever after. We can clearly see that there is a heavy intertextual link in terms of narrative. However, the other elements within the story - the main characters being ogres, the dragon turning friendly, the talking donkey - undoubtedly set Shrek apart from Sleeping Beauty and return some of the originality that is lost when we focus solely on the main plot points.

Even so, the use of ogres, friendly dragons, and talking animals is certainly not a novel concept either. So, even with all of these other elements thrown into the mix, we still have lots of ideas that have been used before. Despite having many elements we may have seen before, when used in combination with multiple different ideas, it can be argued that this particular combination of these ideas has now created an original text. Unless there is another text out there that combines all of these elements in the same way to tell a story that follows the same narrative, this text is one of a kind.

Shrek does also purposefully lean in to its intertextual links with other texts, either for world building purposes or for comedic effect (Author Unknown, 2023). There are many characters present across the multiple Shrek films that audiences are likely to be familiar with: Pinocchio, the Big Bad Wolf, the Three Little Pigs etc. These characters have intentionally been referenced in order to further build the world around the main story and to provide more context for everything that happens within the story. If we see characters we know are from fairytales, it reinforces the idea that this is in fact a fairytale world and many things might be possible. On several occasions the films reference moments from other movies, such as Spiderman (2002) and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001). These moments are clearly for comedic effect and potentially to appeal more to the older audiences who are more likely to make the connection s between texts.

There are bound to be intertextual links between every text - it is impossible to not be influenced, even indirectly, by the work of others that we see everyday. Whether these links are clear or less obvious, the vast amount of combinations of references from other works can be put together in infinitely unique ways to create completely new concepts.

References:

Alfaro, M. J. M. (1996). INTERTEXTUALITY: ORIGINS AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONCEPT. Atlantis, 18(1/2), 268–285. http://www.jstor.org/stable/41054827

(Author Unknown). (2019). The Shrek Franchise: Intertextuality and Textual Poaching. https://shrekfranchise.home.blog/intertextuality-in-shrek/

Cairney, T. (1990). Intertextuality: Infectious Echoes from the Past. The Reading Teacher, 43(7), 478–484. http://www.jstor.org/stable/20200444

Irwin, William. (2004) Against Intertextuality. Philosophy and Literature, vol. 28 no. 2. Project MUSE, https://doi.org/10.1353/phl.2004.0030.

[jakesealblackhangar]

Jake Seal Black Hangar Studios Insight on The Role of Visual Effects in Modern Cinema

International cinema has witnessed an exceptional transformation over time, with visible results (VFX) playing a more and more pivotal role in shaping the storytelling revel in. In this blog, we delve into the expertise of Jake Seal Black Hangar Studios to gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of visual effects in modern cinema.  Jake Seal, a renowned determine inside the VFX industry, is the founding father of Black Hangar Studios, a current VFX and post-production company that has contributed to some of the maximum visually stunning movies in current memory.

The Historical Perspective

Visual effects have been an integral part of filmmaking since the inception of cinema. However, the methods and technology used have developed drastically. In the early days, VFX was mainly performed through practical consequences, including miniatures, matte artwork, and forestall-motion animation. But as technology advanced, the enterprise noticed a shift toward computer-generated imagery (CGI) and digital effects, permitting filmmakers to deliver to existence worlds and creatures that have been as soon as deemed impossible.

The Role of Visual Effects

Visual results serve a large number of capabilities in present-day cinema. They move beyond creating fantastical creatures or breathtaking landscapes; they have grown to be equipment for boosting storytelling, creating surroundings, and adding depth to characters. Jake Seal, together with his widespread enjoyment inside the field, is familiar with the intricate stability among visual spectacle and narrative substance.

Immersive World Building: One of the key aspects of VFX is the capacity to transport the target market into entirely new worlds. Films like "Avatar" and "Lord of the Rings" have used VFX to create immersive settings that captivate viewers and make them feel like they're part of the story.

Seamless Integration: In brand new cinema, VFX has reached a factor wherein it seamlessly integrates with stay-movement footage. Characters can interact with fantastical creatures, and whole scenes can be created digitally without viewers even knowing it.

Emotional Impact: Visual outcomes are not just about creating eye-catching visuals. They can also heighten emotional impact. Whether it is improving the fear in a horror film or amplifying the grandeur of an epic battle, VFX can intensify the viewer's emotional engagement.

Cost-Effective Storytelling: VFX can provide a value-effective alternative to sensible effects or difficult set production. Jake Seal Black Hangar Studios prides itself on offering innovative solutions that save both time and money, permitting filmmakers to bring their visions to existence within budget constraints.

The Collaborative Process

Behind the scenes, the system of creating visual outcomes is a noticeably collaborative enterprise. Filmmakers, VFX artists, and publish-manufacturing groups work closely together to attain the favored outcomes. Jake Seal Black Hangar Studios serves as a testament to the significance of this collaboration, offering a hub where creative minds come together to show visions into truth.

The Advancements in Technology

The rapid improvements in technology have revolutionized the VFX enterprise. CGI has come to be more and more state-of-the-art, taking into consideration the introduction of exceptionally unique characters and environments. Additionally, digital truth (VR) and augmented truth (AR) have unfolded new opportunities for interactive storytelling, and the usage of AI is streamlining the VFX technique.

With entry to the latest tools and era, Black Hangar Studios, under the management of Jake Seal, has contributed to a number of the most visually beautiful sequences in recent cinematic records. Their paintings on films like "Blade Runner 2049" and "Dune" showcase the strength of VFX in shaping current cinema.

The Future of VFX

The future of visible effects in cinema seems promising. As the era continues to advance, we can count on even greater practical and immersive experiences. Virtual production techniques, such as those used in "The Mandalorian," are changing the way films are made. With AI-driven answers, the VFX system is becoming more efficient, lowering production timelines and fees.

In the end, Jake Seal Black Hangar Studios offers valuable insights into the evolving function of visible consequences in modern-day cinema. From global construction to emotional effect, VFX plays an essential position in improving storytelling enjoyment. With the continued development of generations, the opportunities are infinite, and the boundary between reality and creativity continues to blur, enriching the cinematic revel for audiences worldwide.

[videocaddy]

Crafting Cinematic Magic: A Deep Dive into the Top 10 Video Editing Agencies

In the dynamic world of video content, the art of video editing plays an integral role in captivating audiences and conveying compelling narratives. From Hollywood blockbusters to digital marketing campaigns, video editing agencies wield immense power in shaping visual storytelling. In this article, we'll embark on a journey to explore the top 10 video editing agencies globally, each contributing its unique touch to the craft of cinematic magic.

1. Framestore

London, UK

Framestore, founded in 1986, has earned a stellar reputation for its groundbreaking visual effects and post-production work. With a team of talented professionals, they've left an indelible mark on the industry. From Gravity to Blade Runner 2049, Framestore's contributions have garnered numerous awards and accolades.

2. Industrial Light & Magic (ILM)

San Francisco, USA

When discussing video editing agencies, it's impossible to ignore the legendary Industrial Light & Magic. George Lucas founded ILM in 1975, and it has since become a pioneer in visual effects for both film and television. Their work on Star Wars, Jurassic Park, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to set industry standards.

3. Weta Digital

Wellington, New Zealand

Weta Digital is renowned for its exceptional post-production work, particularly in the realms of fantasy and science fiction. This company played a crucial role in bringing Middle-earth to life in The Lord of the Rings trilogy and has continued to shine in movies like Avatar and the Planet of the Apes series.

4. Pixar Animation Studios

Emeryville, USA

Known for its heartwarming and innovative storytelling, Pixar Animation Studios has consistently pushed the boundaries of animation. Films like Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and Up have left an indelible mark on popular culture, with their compelling narratives and stunning visuals.

5. The Mill

London, UK

The Mill is a global visual effects and content creation studio known for its exceptional post-production and visual effects work. Their creative prowess is evident in commercials, music videos, and feature films alike. They have a knack for crafting cinematic magic that resonates with audiences worldwide.

6. Double Negative (DNEG)

London, UK

Double Negative, or DNEG, is another UK-based powerhouse in the world of visual effects and post-production. Their impressive portfolio includes work on films like Inception, Interstellar, and Avengers: Endgame. DENG's commitment to excellence has made them a trusted partner for filmmakers worldwide.

7. Video Caddy

Bangalore, India

Video Caddy has carved a niche for itself in the realm of video editing and post-production services. This Indian-based agency brings cost-effective and high-quality video editing solutions to clients globally. With a focus on video marketing tactics, Video Caddy has become a go-to choice for businesses looking to enhance their online presence through engaging video content.

8. MPC (Moving Picture Company)

London, UK

MPC has a rich history in the world of visual effects, contributing to blockbuster films like The Jungle Book, Harry Potter, and The Lion King. Their expertise in creating photorealistic animations and breathtaking visuals is second to none.

9. Digital Domain

Los Angeles, USA

Digital Domain has been at the forefront of digital innovation for decades. With a legacy of work on films such as Titanic, Transformers, and Deadpool, they continue to be a driving force in the industry, pioneering new video editing and VFX techniques.

10. Blur Studio

Culver City, USA

Blur Studio specializes in video game cinematics and animation for both film and television. Their work on game trailers, such as those for the Halo and League of Legends franchises, showcases their skill in crafting visually stunning and immersive experiences.

In the ever-evolving landscape of video content, these top 10 video editing agencies have consistently demonstrated their prowess in crafting cinematic magic. They have left an indelible mark on the film industry and have played a vital role in shaping the way stories are told through the visual medium.

Video marketing tactics have become increasingly vital in today's digital age. As businesses strive to connect with their target audiences, the use of compelling video content has become a strategic imperative. These agencies not only contribute to the creation of captivating video content for films but also play a crucial role in helping businesses leverage video marketing tactics effectively.

Whether it's the mesmerizing visual effects of Framestore, the iconic creations of Industrial Light & Magic, or the heartwarming stories from Pixar Animation Studios, these agencies have set the bar high for cinematic excellence. Their dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology has resulted in memorable and transformative experiences for audiences worldwide.

While each agency on this list has its own unique strengths and specialties, they all share a common commitment to the craft of video editing. Whether it's through groundbreaking visual effects, stunning animations, or powerful storytelling, these agencies consistently deliver exceptional work that leaves a lasting impact.

In conclusion, the world of video editing agencies is a vibrant and dynamic one, with each of the top 10 agencies mentioned above contributing its own unique brand of cinematic magic. From the glitz and glamor of Hollywood blockbusters to the innovative world of video marketing tactics, these agencies continue to shape the way we experience and engage with visual storytelling. As technology continues to advance and new creative avenues emerge, we can only anticipate even more breathtaking achievements from these cinematic visionaries.

[zachsgamejournal]

COMPLETED: LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

I did it, I beat the "story". While I had some fun, it ultimately felt like "work". I want to make a pass at grabbing all the collectables, but we'll see...

At this point I've played enough to ask the question: Is this a good game? Yes. Yes, it is. The graphics have a charmingly simplistic nature--which is the way of LEGO games--but the environments are very impressive: at times realistic. Besides the typical class system there's also the opportunity to buy class boosts which is an impressive addition. There's a story...from the movies. And while the voice acting is questionable at times, the movies were not well known for performances. There are tons of things to do, replay value, variety, and tons of extras. 

But then there's the other question: do I like it? Not...really. Being a good game isn't the issue. I just couldn't connect with this. The production was so focused on delivering a large galaxy of unique planets with movie-accurate aesthetics that it didn't have time to give much love to the main-line stories. I could respect this if there was hope that the side quests were going to be meaningful, but LEGO games have never been known for their meaningful side quests. They're fun and make a 12 hour game last 50 hours. But they're more interested in being silly than meaningful. 

This is why classic LEGO games worked. They took irreverent approach to retelling a familiar story. If you're familiar with the story, you don't need the story retold verbatim--instead you give some silly pantomime with LEGO-humor and people can laugh at the differences. Lord of the Rings succeeded with voice acting but cause it was taken from the film--so the story stayed true to its source. Skywalker Saga steps outside the story with unique voice acting. I was too distracted with how they got off track and what they left out to care about what they achieved. 

Anyway, some new observations: one, you can spam jump unlike what I thought earlier. I don't know why Hoth is screwed up. That's about it.

To my surprise, I enjoyed playing the original saga most. In the Complete Saga I prefer the Prequel Trilogy. The films tell a better, more epic story, and so the levels are more fun to me. because Skywalker Saga expands on the original stories with open-world gameplay, it actually makes the original stories a bit more epic themselves.

I was less impressed with the sequel trilogy. The Force Awakens is just goofy nonsense. That's JJ Abrams style. He likes to ask the questions but not answer them, which leads to a lot of wacky dramatic cliffhangers that are usually doomed to fail. Maybe I should blame his writers...doesn't matter. JJ Abrams makes disposable trash. It's entertaining, and connects with people, but it's like painting an ocean on the bottom of a kiddie pool. Anyway, Force Awakens is fun but it's a total retread and is more concerned with reintroducing you to your grandpa then breaking new Star Wars ground or significantly advancing the story and universe. Cause of that, many of the levels feel like retread: Oh I'm on a desert world, oh I'm in a Cantina, oh I'm blowing up a death star...

I was more looking forward to The Last Jedi--the best of the sequel trilogy and one of the best movies overall. But it doesn't translate well into a game. The opening works, obviously, but while following around Skywalker and facing one's nemesis across the galaxy is good cinematic storytelling it doesn't make for exciting gameplay. You mostly just walk around places. Oh well, still a great movie.

And then there's The Rise of Skywalker. Dumb. Just dumb. I feel like the goal of this film was to make as little sense as possible to prove Star Wars could make money whether it tried or not. It's really sad that this is how we end the "Skywalker Saga". There's a lot of great shows, like Andor, to help elevate the franchise. I'm hoping that this acts as the "end" of Star Wars' timeline so no one needs to watch it to make sense of any other media. But I don't know, Endgame made Thor 2 important--so there's that.

Because I didn't like the movie, there was no point in which Rise of Skywalker felt fun for me. It was just a final endurance boss preventing me from saying "I win". By the time the credits rolled I was already looking at my phone for random articles. 

So here I am, this is where I wanted to be. The story is "out of the way" and every class and planet is unlocked. Do I want to keep playing? Before I got here I thought yes, of course! I want to take this to the end! But now I'm just thinking of all the games I really want to play. I didn't love this enough to 100% it, and I didn't even 100% the Complete Saga (which I do love). 

My daughter wants to explore, so maybe I'll switch back to Oddworld for myself and then she and I can do bonus missions together.

--UPDATE--

Well good thing I didn't post this yet. I'm done with this game. Maybe if my daughter wants to play, we'll play. But for now I'm done. 

I tried to do side quests at Utapau and had not a great time. While the level seems to be pretty accurate to the film on which it's based, it wasn't very fun to get around. Sometimes I could only use a single ladder or other platformy way to climb to higher sections, but it wasn't fun to get up there and if you made a mistake hopping across rooftops, you had to do it all again. I ended up doing it alot. Also, there are missions that require you to travel to different planets to fulfill. I really wasn't interested. Maybe if this game was just "here's the Star Wars galaxy, have fun" I'd be ok with it. But having to go through the unexciting story aspects to unlock all the planets creates a barrier to that. 

I respect what they did and accomplished, but I'm not loving it.

[shyujikl]

What is the difference between Gandalf and Sherlock pipes?

Welcome to our dedicated blog, where we discuss the differences between Gandalf and Sherlock pipes. We are passionate about exploring this topic and providing valuable insights to those new to the world of smoking pipes. It's important to note that both Gandalf and Sherlock pipes are highly respected types of tobacco pipes, crafted with expertise and available in various parts of the world. However, there are subtle differences between these two pipe varieties that are worth familiarizing yourself with before making a purchase. In this blog, we will carefully examine the contrasts between Gandalf and Sherlock pipes, explaining their unique features to help you make an informed and wise decision. The Gandalf pipe, also known as a "long-stemmed" or "churchwarden" pipe, is a unique smoking accessory recognized for its elongated stem and bowl. This pipe style became popular due to Tolkien's portrayal of Gandalf as a pipe enthusiast who favors the long-stemmed design. Most Gandalf pipes are made from briar wood, although they are also available in other materials such as wood and meerschaum. Additionally, Gandalf pipes usually have a curved mouthpiece at one end, providing a comfortable grip during smoking sessions. This curve allows the pipe to rest between the teeth, preventing direct contact with the lips or tongue while enjoying the tobacco. Typically, a Gandalf pipe has an extended stem ranging from 9 to 14 inches or even longer. The length of the stem serves both functional and aesthetic purposes: It allows for more smoke to pass through effortlessly, and provides additional percolator space for larger hits while also giving you more control over your smoking experience. It's a unique pipe with a rounded, slightly flared shape that allows for more tobacco to be packed. The name of this type of pipe was inspired by the iconic detective, Sherlock Holmes, who often smoked a similar pipe in the movies. Interestingly, the Sherlock pipe has become a popular element in various adaptations of Sherlock Holmes stories. For instance, Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Holmes features this type of pipe in "Sherlock." The Sherlock pipe is easily recognizable by its curved stem, which provides a comfortable and hands-free smoking experience. This design also allows for a better grip and fits more comfortably between the lips compared to a straight stem. So to fully introduce the two types of pipes, we need to know what is the difference between them What are the main differences between Gandalf's and Sherlock's pipes? When comparing Gandalf pipes and Sherlock pipes, the most noticeable difference is their shape. Gandalf pipes are straight with a tapered end and have a longer stem than a Sherlock pipe. The longer stem of the Gandalf pipe cools down the smoke before it reaches the smoker's mouth, providing a smoother smoking experience. In contrast, Sherlock pipes are curved and shaped like a gourd, with a wider bowl opening than a Gandalf pipe. This allows for more tobacco to be packed into it. The inspiration for the production of these pipes is also different. The production of these pipes was inspired by iconic characters from literature. Gandalf pipes were modeled after the wizard character from J.R.R Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings series, while Sherlock pipes were designed after the famous detective in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's books. These pipes have distinctive features that set them apart. Gandalf pipes have a lengthy stem that helps to cool the smoke before it reaches the smoker's mouth. In contrast, Sherlock pipes have a larger bowl than the standard pipe, enabling longer smoking sessions and the ability to smoke various types of tobacco in one session.The chamber of the Sherlock pipe is also deeper, allowing for a slower, more even burn. Additionally, Sherlock pipes have a bent stem that provides an elegant appearance while remaining comfortable to hold during indoor or outdoor smoking sessions. You can learn from the product features introduced above. If you like easier suction, we recommend using Sherlock pipe, because Sherlock pipe is one of the most famous designs used today because it makes smoking easier by providing better airflow than other traditional shapes like billiards or bulldogs, and most importantly Sherlock pipe comes with a metal tenon which makes it easier to clean inside the bowl. But if you like a long pipe or a cool smoke, we recommend Gandalf pipes Read the full article