The prospect of creating a stop motion film is daunting, to say the least.
And that special something is whereAardman Animationshas made their mark.
The tour begins with a stop in the puppet department, led by puppet designer Anne King.
Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most FowlNetflix
Here, we are introduced to the process of creating the puppets out of both silicone and clay.
You cant just stick in any old effect, like real flames or real water.
Sometimes its too realistic and it doesnt marry into this world nicely, he says.
‘Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Foul’Netflix
We still use effects which are basic theatrical effects, like water effects and fire effects.
That was better for the animators, adds Crossingham.
It wouldve driven them crazy.
Every blink, hand gesture and slight facial expression needs to be accounted for.
The animators are trying to do five seconds a week, is the target.
We dont talk to them aboutanimation, we talk to them about performance, says Crossingham.
Gromit has a very expressive brow, but he also has shoulders.
Sometimes its just a case of dropping the shoulders and making him look exasperated.
Thats the real challenge.
Hes such a simple graphic presence.
Anything you do with him, you see it.
Do we make him blink?
Theres no way an animator can get to animate over there.
