Stop-Motion Animation: A Timeless Technique for Captivating Storytelling
Stop-motion is one of the oldest animation styles, dating back to the 19th century. It remains popular today in claymation hits like Wallace and Gromit. And combined with new technology, it continues to be a powerful technique for captivating storytelling, as this stirring new ad shows.
Humane World for Animals’ New TV Ad
The animal welfare charity Humane Society International and Humane Society are rebranding as Humane World for Animals. To announce the new identity, the newly combined organisation has launched a new TV ad that uses a unique hybrid animation approach with stunning results (see our guide to the best animation software and the best laptops for animation if you’re looking to get started on your own animation projects).
Behind the Scenes
The new ad for the Humane World for Animals launch was made by Nexus Studios and director Johnny Kelly. It’s set to music by Sia, who has recorded a rendition of Peter Gabriel’s 1977 hit Solsbury Hill. The animation was made using incredibly lifelike handmade puppets and intricate stop-motion animation to tell the stories and transformations of five animals. Nexus has made the behind-the-scenes film below, revealing the painstaking process involved in creating the piece.
The Creative Approach
The rebranded charity initially decided to use animation to avoid using real animals and the potential harm that could cause. Nexus Studios’ creative approach allowed the brand to depict stories that show how it intervenes to improve the treatment of animals, from farm animals, to endangered species and marine life.
The Result
The use of real puppets and stop motion adds a warmth and emotion to the piece, while the hybrid approach creates a strikingly unique and realistic look.
The Director’s Perspective
Johnny from Nexus said the project was an ambitious experiment. "Summoned by the clarion call of animal welfare and adorable miniature stop-motion puppets, we were able to amass an incredibly talented crew and create a unique hybrid approach incorporating LED screens," he said. "It was an experiment — but Nexus have a knack for jamming traditional techniques and high-end technology together so you get the best of both worlds — and in this instance, it allowed us to dream big with our ambitions and storytelling. To tell stories that hint at the incredible work Humane World for Animals carries out around the globe."
Conclusion
Stop-motion animation remains a powerful technique for captivating storytelling, and this new ad showcases its ability to evoke emotions and convey complex stories. The use of handmade puppets and stop-motion animation creates a unique and realistic look, making it an effective way to communicate the work of Humane World for Animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is stop-motion animation?
A: Stop-motion animation is an animation technique that involves physically manipulating objects or puppets and photographing them in small increments, then playing back the resulting frames to create the illusion of movement.
Q: What is the benefit of using stop-motion animation in this ad?
A: The use of stop-motion animation allows for the creation of lifelike puppets and a unique, realistic look, which is particularly effective for telling stories that highlight animal welfare issues.
Q: What is the purpose of the new rebranding?
A: The rebranding is intended to unify the two separate entities, Humane Society International and Humane Society, under one new identity, Humane World for Animals.
