ABSTRACT
The first major area of discussion presented in the book is story development and the various, sometimes unconventional, approaches that animation filmmakers can adopt to make their films’ stories and characters unique. Looking first to films that are anchored by their protagonists, in The Character-Driven Approach, we focus on Sam Morrison’s Rocket Science trilogy and his process for character development. Telling the Harder Truths examines the filmography of Adam Elliot and his unique methods of drawing stories from observation and life experience in films such as Brother, Uncle, Cousin, Harvie Krumpet and Mary and Max. Among the areas addressed are the role of narration, making characters believably authentic and empathetic as well as the value of tackling loftier social issues with an accessible, comedic sensibility. Filmmaker Matthew Walker (Astronauts, Operator, John and Karen) shares his insights into the role of scriptwriting and how a film’s economic circumstances can help shape its story.
