Project 1: Research, Direction, Sketches
For those who are just now joining me feel free to read more on the project and why it is that I’m doing this in these two posts: The “Personal Project” Project and “Project 1: Kickoff”.
Research
As I explained in the Kickoff post, I have decided that my first project will be a set of style frames for the title sequence to an un-made Batman movie. After diving into a Mind Map (for the first time I might add), I immediately came up with words that associate with the Batman character that I had not really thought of before — or at least not on a regular basis. Upon starting the project, I struggled with choosing a story arc to base the title sequence on. The Mind Map helped me narrow it down to the Court of the Owls story arc and The Hunt for Robin story arc. Ultimately I felt that the Court of the Owls arc would make for a much more interesting set of titles and also touches on a relatively new villain in the Batman universe.
With a story arc chosen, I began flipping through the comics that covered the Court of the Owls. Despite finishing them not too long ago (a couple months at most) I found a bunch of interesting details that I had missed during the first read through.
The Details
One of the details that I intend on focusing in on is the Court of Owls medallion/insignia that is used throughout the story. Embedded into the throwing blades of the Court’s Undead Assassin’s — the Talons, in their “nests” and even in the molars of the Talons themselves I think there is definitely something interesting to play off of with the medallion.
Another detail is the somewhat terrifying mask that is worn by the members of The Court. In a panel where Batman discovers who the members of The Court are, he finds and smashes on of the masks while interrogating one the members. I can definitely see that panel being brought to life in the title sequence.
Rough Notes
I unfortunately did not get to the sketching stage however I did want to share my notes to show how I’m starting to develop some rough ideas.
Where I’m headed with this
Ok so my direction may sound kind of vague right now. I guess I’m just not as far along as I had hoped/expected to be but I at least have some general ideas on paper. This week I will be refining the written concept and begin gathering visual reference followed by a mood board — all of which I’ll post next Monday.
A little extra something
I hadn’t intended on posting any screenshots or progress images however since I had already started on this earlier I figured I’d post. I’m a fan of the recent DC Comics rebrand by Landor Associates so I want to add the logo animation, even if it’s just a few frames. Granted, I simply picked up where I left off on a tutorial from AETuts, since it’s already started, I might as well add it right? I will find some way to tie it into the title sequence thematically once the titles are complete rather than just slapping in a piece of work derived directly from a tutorial.
How can you help?
I encourage anyone who follows this journey to please — leave me public feedback on the concept, the process and the work. If you are uncomfortable leaving public feedback, please shoot me a private message or email. Any feedback you give will be greatly appreciated.
