For my final prototype, I decided to continue fleshing out the story of my short film. I completed a first draft of my script, shot list, and character design concepts. When working on the script, I decided to shorten the story to keep it simple. Instead of being around 5 minutes, the film will now be around 2 minutes. Because of the amount of animation involved in the wakeup sequence, I figured that it would be best to primarily focus on this particular sequence. By limiting the amount of screen time for BZ-9E, it will allow me to concentrate on making sure the character animation is as smooth as possible. With a shorter script, I will have more time to fine tune the 3D model and animation of my CGI character instead of rushing to animate a sequence later in the film. The quality of the animation is more important than the quantity.
I also made a shot list for the film, detailing the location, subject, framing, angle, camera movement, and descriptions of what is happening in each composition. This is a necessary step in pre-production and will serve as a guide when I shoot over winter break. I also sketched more detailed designs for BZ-9E as well as facial expressions that might appear in the film. I arrived at a design that I felt best represented the character. I then portrayed the character in various poses that may appear in the film.
The feedback that I received related mostly to story and character considerations. Some questions that I will consider when finalizing my script include:
What is Nat’s motivation for building robots? Work? Contest?
Why is she making these vlog-type videos?
Why is she so frustrated by failure?
What is her reason for isolation?
Understanding my main character’s driving force is critical in making the audience emotionally connect with her. Since I plan to tell this story mostly through visuals rather than dialogue, my shot choices are crucial in informing the audience who Nat is and why they should care. Nat’s frustration at her failures to create a functioning prototype will be accomplished by showing rather than telling.
