Peter Pan Animated Splash | Gallery Spot
Peter Pan Animated Splash | Gallery Spot
Denver’s Next Stage Gallery came to us with a request for a 25-30 second animated splash to promote the showing of Peter Pan at the Denver Performing Arts Center. The piece was used in a lounge gathering area facing the public street, and the imagery was intended to draw in audiences ages 12-20 with an interest in arts and theatre.
The concepts, style guide, and narrative of the piece were developed collaboratively with two team members: Jacob Martinez and Cal Archer. All characters and illustrated assets were originally produced and rigged by Bryan McDonald.
Project Overview
The client requested a surreal yet identifiable motion piece that drew reference to the original Peter Pan novel. It was important that the imagery be distinct to that of the 1953 movie while utilizing symbols and imagery that represented the original story.
The motion piece captures the moments leading to Peter Pan cutting off Hooks’ hand, in which the crocodile happens to swallow. During the film, the persistent sound of a ticking clock lingers in the background (highlighting the Crocodile’s name: Tic-Toc), announcing the crocodile’s presence and reinforcing the narrative symbology of Time as an all-devouring entity. These intentions were developed to satisfy the client’s desire for a surreal tone and an aesthetic that was unique to the Disney animated film, as well as to appeal to more mature audience members.
Concepting and Styleframes
The piece presents the literal events of the story in a dark, dream-like setting reminiscent of early 20th century cartoons (referencing the era of popularity for Jamie Berry’s original Peter Pan novel). Focusing on the character of the Crocodile, the visuals of the piece were developed to echo an ominous, morbid aesthetic. The sepia tint will be reminiscent of old 1920’s cartoons, an aesthetic reference that is reinforced by the sound bed (a silent film score).
