‘Across The Stars’ John Williams & Anne Sophie Mutter
Animation Studio: Society Animations
Direction: Wayne McCauslin
VFX painting: Anthony Brault, Killian Prevost 3D animation: Curtis Keeble 2D animation: Neirin Best
To have the chance to develop a music video for such a world renowned masterpiece was something of a dream. Combining my love for plants and aliens - I could not have asked for a better gig! Not only that but the chance to visualise work by the renowned composer John Williams probably one of the most famous composers alive.
Starting points. I began with listening to the track on loop and did my initial sketches like any other good creator - with a cup of coffee.
Rough storyboard
I started to map out the film with some initial roughs.
Visualising movement
While thinking about the content and the beautiful landscapes, it was also important to visualise the movement and ‘the dance’
Colourised storyboard:
This was to give an impression of the mood, and take it even closer to realisation.
The script was then approved by the producers at Deutsche Grammofon, and passed on to two separate painters who were able to take my direction and conceive these beautiful landscapes. Working with two different artists Anthony Brault, Killian Prevost. It meant i had to have a good eye for keeping the style cohesive. This was only possible with strong references and art direction.
For the 3d and the animation, I had the pleasure of building and rigging the plants in 3ds max.
In the end, I was very happy with the results. We produced this film within our 6 week goal, with minor changes. I think the film had many memorable moments, every shot can be used as a keyframe thanks to having talented painters on board.
