Stop! In The Name Of Love!
If you have found your way onto my blog, it probably means that you read the title and tagline, and have an idea of what I’m trying to do here. You might, however, be wondering why a college student is attempting to create some type of stop-motion content in such a short period of time.
The answer to that is simpler than you might think: I adore it. Something captivates me about the art of stop-motion animation. The process is so painstakingly slow because you are capturing it one frame at a time; moving physical objects in tiny increments in order to create a full scene once the images are played back at rapid speed. It is an art form that requires the utmost dedication and patience from its animators. One small mistake can result in having to redo hours or even days of work. The result? Visually stunning films.
Over the years, I have fallen in love with one animation studio in particular: Laika. Laika Studios has turned out some of my all-time favourite stop-motion films, such as Coraline, Paranorman, The Boxtrolls, and recently, Kubo and the Two Strings. Their style is quirky and original, which I aim for too. I should tell you that what I’m going to try to do will look nothing close to a Laika film. They are just the ones responsible for awakening my love of stop-motion and inspiring my attempt to do it myself.
Here is a short clip featuring Laika animators working on The Boxtrolls film.
Now you know why I want to do it. But how will do it? How will I create something that even vaguely resembles proper stop-motion? It’s safe to say that I can’t afford fancy dolls with movable joints or well-crafted clay figures. Nor can I afford a state-of-the-art camera, huge lights, a handcrafted set, or a skilled team of animators.
What do I have? A Nikon Coolpix L340, two tripods, a box of old toys (see below) from my aunt’s basement, a desk lamp, and mediocre drawing skills. I’m also alone in this, but I’m willing to take the plunge.
Odd monster found in a box behind heat pump (PICTURE by Myryam Ladouceur)
Gargoyle action figure | also found in THE basement. (PICTURE by Myryam Ladouceur)
Myryam Ladouceur
Myryam Ladouceur is a second-year Professional Writing student at Algonquin College, aspiring to work in the editing and publishing business. She likes to write short stories and poetry, doodle on any surface available, and read whatever catches her eye. She hopes to one day have the privilege to edit the next great novel of her generation.