Animation Fundamentals: Method Studios Reel

Hannah Cao
Sep 7, 2018 · 3 min read

There’s a lot to talk about with this reel, though first I want to draw attention to how fun it is. It totally makes me want to dance, and I’d be lying if said I didn’t try out some of the moves they used. Choreographed along to an exciting, upbeat soundtrack, this is a great demonstration of talent that is enjoyable to watch over and over again. Besides that, in order to make each motion look look realistic as they dance, the characters exemplify several fundamentals of animation.

Solid Drawing

Look at that greek statue-ish pose. Wow, contrapposto, wow. This is a great example of solid drawing, where forms feel like they have volume, weight, and balance. As the figure moves his left leg, the balance shifts to his right, and the alignment of his hips and shoulders follow.

Method Studio’s David

Squash and Stretch

Next, here is an example of squash and stretch, where the rubbery, inflatable-looking material compresses as it lands. The main action is a sideways-jump.

squash
stretch

Framing

Finally, framing is used very obviously throughout the video. As if we could possibly rip our eyes from the wildly dancing, shapeshifting, crazy characters as they move around the screen, the background very intentionally keeps our focus where it needs to be. The circle is used repeatedly, in almost every single shot, and this shape is arguably the best when it comes to stealing our attention. Additionally, the colors are simple and provide contrast to the crazy motions and texture of the figure, which are the most important parts of the video.

Arcs

Another principle as a bonus (because I really like this particular part) is the worm move that starts at 1:39. As the character does the worm, their butt — the easiest part for me to track — moves in a distinct circle shape, which reinforces how even crazy, outlandish motions usually follow arcs.

BetweenTheFrames

Animated analysis from UMBC's Intro to Animation class

Hannah Cao

Written by

BetweenTheFrames

Animated analysis from UMBC's Intro to Animation class

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