![]() The rapid prototyping department both researches and models the character faces with a team of approximately 70. The studio was a recent recipient of the Scientific and Technical Oscar for their progress in the field, using 3D printing to its full potential. When it comes to stop motion, facial expression has always been one of the most painstaking design elements, and this is where LAIKA excels. Processes like laser etching and vinyl pressing allow a profound level of detail to be present on the costumes, from stitching patterns to the ability to bend and hold the fabric in certain areas, creating an illusion of movement between shots. Interestingly, the majority of the metals, fabrics, and plastics needed to create all of LAIKA’s wonderful sets and characters are made around the Portland area this speaks to the company’s embodiment of the idea of a creative community. Each puppet contains an armature, or skeleton, allowing the animators to adjust arms and legs and position the character in nearly unlimited ways. Next a maquette is made, based on the 2D concept drawings - which serve as a template for additional movable puppets. Researchers pile through thousands of pages of history to find the perfect outfit and aesthetic for each character. Just a glance at the characters reveals how necessary each craftsperson is the detail on the (on average) 9 ½ inch figures is awe-inspiring. Hayes’ department is extensive and even includes a costume designer, an irregular position on an animated film. LAIKA has a team of 65 designers and craftspeople led by the Creative Supervisor, (on Kubo, Georgina Hayes). Pre-production can be lengthy LAIKA spent five years on Kubo before rolling the cameras.įilming cannot begin until each character and set is built. These drawings offer the animators a visual guide to the story from which to base their own work. This idea is fleshed-out into a script (of which there are likely numerous drafts) and later storyboards and animatic. Like all animated movies, LAIKA begins with a concept, written or drawn. And though we might say they have perfected stop-motion, LAIKA believes you can always strive to do better. Each character is lovingly designed: first drawn, then 3D-printed in order to achieve the unique fantastical style for which LAIKA is known. ![]() LAIKA has perfected their form of stop-motion animation, combining computer generated elements with fully-realized puppets and miniaturized sets. Because LAIKA isn’t an animation studio with rooms filled entirely with computers where characters are drawn and seen only on a screen nearly every character, set, and prop the audience sees in theaters is tangible and real. ![]() However, once inside, LAIKA was instantly inviting, a company where storytellers at all levels sung praises of the work they do there.Īnd the work they do at LAIKA is nothing short of astonishing. An unaware tourist could easily drive past their building without a second glance there is no sign to point you in, no giant statue of a titular character to welcome visitors. Firstly, LAIKA is secluded, far away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles or San Francisco, and a significant drive from the big city in Oregon as well. Though working at LAIKA may carry the same prestige as working at animation titans Pixar and DreamWorks, the job description and perks are vastly different. ![]()
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