M0D3RN T1M3Z, 30 seconds, USA
Directed by Richard Thompson
A machine comes to life in a 3D animation short inspired by Charlie Chaplin.
https://www.instagram.com/r_crosbythompson
Get to know the filmmaker:
1. What motivated you to make this film?
I wanted to use it as a teaching tool. I teach digital design with a specific focus on bringing virtual characters to life and visual storytelling through animation. I created an assignment where students had to design a non-humanoid machine that first had to move as if it were only a machine but comes alive with cause. As a class, we could then discuss the differences in the type of movement needed to convey that change from machine to living creature. Two main characteristics defining living creatures are movement with intent and responding to environmental stimuli. The other thing I wanted my students to focus on was only creating the objects needed to tell their story — that is the reason for the lack of any environment. I wanted to emphasize the importance of story and creating an empathetic link — not spending weeks creating an environment that would likely make little difference to their story (only much time-consuming work). For the machine-like animation, I drew inspiration from Charlie Chaplin’s turn as an animatronic in The Circus. I always do the assignment myself before giving it to my students. I also record tutorial videos that support their learning and process when they get to do it. Once I had created the animation, I showed it to a few people and it always got a strong reaction even though there was no sound at the time. This made me think about submitting it to film festivals. I asked my oldest son — who is in the film industry — if he would add sound. I started to submit the film and have been a little blown away by the reception it has received.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
This is a tough one to answer because I do not take note of the time while creating. Also, I had previously built some of the assets for previous tutorials. But a rough estimate might be one month.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Coming alive.
Aside: I love this question. I recommend it for any creative brief!
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Animating the moments when the machine is “just” a machine. It started to drive me crazy because I so wanted to add character and attitude — it’s more fun! At one point, I could not bear it any longer and added anticipation (one of the 12 Principles of Animation) to the wrist movement when the machine first throws the can into the garbage can. However, it was a fascinating learning moment. As soon as I added it, the machine appeared to have an “attitude” and therefore “be alive” and “thinking”. It defeated the purpose of what I was trying to demonstrate — a clear-cut moment when the machine comes alive. So I got rid of that small bit — “kill your babies” as the expression goes.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Truly thrilled. Their comments were insightful and extremely validating because they hit on everything I try to teach my students.
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I had a previous career as a professional actor and playwright and over 35 years of creative and collaborative arts industry experience. I have also always loved film. However, the last 20+ years have been focused on teaching and developing degree programs. This is the very first animated short film I have submitted to festivals. I plan to do more.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Maybe The Spy Who Loved Me (James Bond). I was a kid and I saw that in the movie theaters three times in the space of a month. Other than that, it’s tough to know. I have seen Deer Hunter, Airplane, About a Boy, The Bridge on the River Kwai, Oliver!, Toy Story, The Matador, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and Midnight Run many times. I am sure I am forgetting many though… When you are a parent, it is such a joy to share movies you have enjoyed with your kids.
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Not sure — particularly since I am fairly new to this process. I think what you all do is wonderful — the feedback, the communication, these interview questions, etc. I do not want to focus on a negative but I have learned that one has to do some due diligence when submitting, and ensure you are not being “scammed”. Obviously, this is not the case with the Under 5 Minute Festival. There are things I do and check up on. However, I wish there was a clear way of determining the legitimacy of all festivals.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How have your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Good question and it connects a little to my answer above. It is amazingly convenient to have everything in one place. However, I have read that they do not do quite enough in terms of confirming the legitimacy of all festivals. That is a concern.
10. What is your favorite meal?
If I were on a deserted island and could only eat one type of food, it would be Italian. However, if I had to choose a last meal — probably steak tartare (and, yes, I know that’s raw!).
11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes. I am working on a slightly more complex animated short film called Smior, about a Viking who finds that his life is not fulfilled by constant pillaging, even though he is amassing great treasure. I have other projects connected to Charlie Chaplin and a much larger animation project called La Piazza about a gelato salesman who battles the forces of change. Many of the assets have been created for this, but it probably requires more than just one person to complete.
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