Team effort: The film production involved 22 students majoring in digital animation and illustration.
A SHORT film produced with the use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) by students at The One Academy has garnered over 83,000 views since its release some three weeks ago.
Tinged with horror elements, “Dead Da” tells the story of a “dit da sifu” (traditional Chinese bone-setting therapist) who encounters an unexpected visitor with an unusual request in the dead of night.
Released on Aug 16, which coincided with the beginning of the Hungry Ghost Festival observed by Chinese communities, the project involved 22 students majoring in digital animation and illustration who came together to form KrikKrak Productions.
While the film ends in less than five minutes, it took the students a year and a half to complete, marking the culmination of their studies in their final year.
Film director and lead lighting artist Tan Hui Ci said her studies at the academy provided her with a solid foundation across various aspects, including concept art, animation and production workflow.
“I believe filmmaking itself is the best way to learn everything. Prior to that, I was unfamiliar with what to do and how to do things. Now, I at least have some idea of it when I step into the industry,” she said in a press release from the academy dated Aug 28.
“This project was a chance for all of us to learn how to work as a team with another department and to understand the proper production workflow. We did our best in every way,” she added.
According to the press release, the students encountered several challenges which were integral to their learning, such as crafting a culturally accurate zombie design, opting for a semi-realistic style for the overall film, and determining the appropriate level of animation exaggeration.
“Creating a semi-realistic film was quite a challenge for us. I hope those who watch our short film will find it enjoyable and inspiring,” said line producer and concept artist Woon Zi Qi.
Another challenge was having to hold online discussions as the students were among those who were impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, preventing them from attending classes and collaborating in person.
“As we gradually became better acquainted through our collaboration, we engaged in film discussions, shared diverse perspectives, generated fresh new ideas, and came up with plans to help with the production,” Woon said.
The press release added that the illustration team, who played a role in the pre-production stage by conceptualising the overall atmosphere and visual aesthetics, drew inspiration from episodes of the Love, Death & Robots series, specifically The Tall Grass and The Witness, as well as the animation Arcane.
“The team members also researched thoroughly the historical backgrounds of the Chinese words to enhance the depth of their narrative and to make sure there are no errors in the meanings,” the press release read.
To watch the “Dead Da” animated short film, go to https://youtu.be/C2t-gdhBuT0.
