The collaborative talent of new team at FSM showcased in 3D animated short film ‘Rusty’
FSM VFX has launched a short 3D animation to showcase the new team’s collaborative talent. The film highlights the 3D tools at the team’s fingertips, such as a powerful render farm, customised toolset, a new Canon 5D camera and the latest software.
The self-funded animation centres on Rusty, a robot who lives in a warehouse. All plates for the light-hearted film were shot with the Canon 5D on location at Cockatoo Island, capturing colour and raw details with a range of lenses.
“We wanted Rusty to showcase one of the many styles of animation we can produce utilising our upgraded technology combined with the talent of our expanded team,” said FSM managing director Rick Schweikert.
“We also want to demonstrate to creatives that animation in all its forms is a legitimate and imaginative way of making a commercial with significant cost saving opportunities for clients.
We’ve created 3D animated spots in the past, like Panadol Dragon, Diet Coke Marionettes and Nestle Bear, but Rusty gave us the chance to unleash our own creativity from concept through to finish.”
Adds Head of 3D, Andreas Wanda: “Texture was very important to us throughout the production phase, as its one key detail that makes the work stand apart.”
Rusty’s look had to truly reflect his name. His flaking paint and rust were given detail with Z-Brush, and his parts were based on the 1900’s industrial revolution look of exposed gear mechanisms and bearings. The team created 101 versions of Rusty before they were happy with the look seen in the film.
Working with Andreas was animator Andy Sutton, technical director Chris Gardner and new recruit Amanda Lee, who provided invaluable animation talent.
“Amanda came through the Screen NSW VFX scheme and I knew she had talent from the first time we interviewed her. Plus, she balances out the overly blokey 3D department,” said Wanda.
Lighting and finishing was achieved using Mental Ray and Nuke at full 1080p by lighting specialist Adam Waddington, with sound design and mix by the very talented Nigel from Stellar at FSM.