Date:10/11/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/11/10/stories/2008111051020200.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Deciphering the art of animation

Staff Reporter

7th International Animation Day celebrated

— Photo: R.Ravindran

Deft touches: The Face Painting Contest organised by ASIFA India in Chennai on Saturday in progress.

CHENNAI: As Digital Effects Supervisor of Imageworks India N.Shoban Babu explained the making of the film ‘I am Legend,’ at the 7th International Animation Day celebration here on Saturday, the gulf between reality and the scene as seen in the film painstakingly bridged by digital effects with clinical precision became clear.

“The dedication, passion, attitude and knowledge of many visual effects technicians from India have made an impact on many films at the international level,” he said addressing the programme organised by ASIFA India. Many Indians, including Mr.Babu, who was the Computer Graphics Supervisor, were part of the team that digitally created an environment for the post-apocalyptic science fiction film directed by Francis Lawrence and starring Will Smith.

However another visual effects expert Mohanakrishnan of EFX said that despite plenty of talent in India only a small percentage is employable. Better communication skills and attitude are necessary for an individual contributing to the animation industry. He explained how three different layers of three separate shots were merged using digital effects in the film ‘Virumaandi’ to create a breathtaking scene of a fierce bull moving past actor Kamal Haasan.

“Animation is an art. A person with exemplary ability to draw can contribute to the industry with the technological tools available,” Mr.Mohanakrishnan said.

The day-long celebrations began with the screening of the compilation of some amazing animation, visual effects and gaming works done in India and other parts of the world. The works of leading animators in the city were also showcased.

Image Ventures presented works on Indian characters targeting a foreign audience. Satyam BPO screened clips from a vernacular film which won the Nandi Award. Ken Creative showcased work from its 3D project.

In response to queries from the audience, mostly comprising aspiring animators, representatives of the animation industry in Chennai explained how to become good animators. The afternoon session involved some key aspects of animation.

It explored the fundamentals of animation including pre-production, acting, sound, storytelling and character design. The acting component underlined the importance of the gesture and posture of the character in animation.

The importance of sound in animation as a factor influencing the mood was explained. There were a number of contests for the aspiring animators. The session concluded with prize distribution.