Animation is the illusion of movement created by a series of individually manipulated images, each different from the last. In filmmaking, animation allows us almost unlimited creative possibilities; possibilities that live action cinema does not.

Stop-motion animation is animation using physical materials such as:

–                    Plasticine eg Extreme Makeover - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhoIUJX3yFE

–                    Human Bodies eg The Seagull - http://www.youtube.com/watchv=tEkvRUM820Y&feature=related

–                    Household objects eg Western Spaghetti - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBjLW5_dGAM

–                    Rubbish – eg Catch of the Day - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8spMLvoJG8

Film writers must decide how to use these animation techniques to best tell their stories and which techniques best suit which stories.

In my workshop I will be discussing my experiences in the animation industry as both an animator and a writer and the relationship between the two.

Before the workshop consider a story that you think might make a good short film and how you might incorporate animation into this story.

Please feel free to add any questions or responses via the portal blog.

See you at the festival

Jonathan Daw