Hello and welcome to the first episode of Saturday Morning Animations here on Suvudu! We’ve come a long way in digital animation and storytelling, as I hope this little series (I have no idea how long this will run, but I have enough to get us through this month and the next). You’re not longer tied to enormous production houses to create a digital film with high production values.
Of course, that’s not to say I’m going to restrain myself to only the slickest and most polished of productions, that would be far too limiting. The joy of finding animations across the web is in the free-for-all creativity and, as you’ll see today, you don’t have to be photo-realistic to put together a ripping good video.
To kick things off we’re starting with one video that’s so funny it had me in tears and another one that had me in awe at its storytelling from top to bottom.
Enough preamble – let’s get things started! On with the show!
Star Wars: Retold
by Joe Nicolosi
If you’re even remotely aware of the original Star Wars trilogy, then you’re probably going to get a kick out of this one. If you aren’t, then you’ll probably still get a kick out of this video. I watched it at work and ended up with tears in my eyes, a bright red face, and an office full of co-workers who were getting pretty concerned for my well-being. It’s that funny. Star Wars: Retold is a recounting of the first three movies’ story arc by someone who hasn’t actually seen the movies. It was also the winner of the ‘George Lucas Selects’ award in the 2009 Star Wars Fan Movie contest. Enjoy!
Cat Piano
by PRA (People’s Republic of Animation)
It would be easy to recommend this one based on style alone. When you say “animation” today, many of us automatically think of digitally rendered figures on par with Shrek, Up, or Wall•E. The classic animation look has been absent enough from the theaters that it’s starting to look fresh again (at least, to my eyes). But Cat Piano has more going for it, the writing is fresh as well, flowing like beat poetry or song. We’re going completely 180° in tone with this one and I think you’ll enjoy the ride. Play it again, Cat…
Want more? Check out the other episodes in the Weekend Animations season: View the series list.
Yay! I do believe I’m going to enjoy Saturday Morning Animations. Do you hear that, television? You have forsaken me and I have to get my Saturday morning cartoons elsewhere! Anyway, let me know if you need help when/if your supply is running low.