In 2023, I dedicated time to engage with Filmsupply's Edit Fest 2023 challenge. My goal was to delve into the realm of AI-generated imagery and examine its potential applications in title design. I started this project right during the SAG-AFTRA strike, aiming to set up safeguards against AI misuse. And I'm really glad they managed to find an agreement. Skynet is certainly within reach.
I began conceptualizing a film title sequence showcasing my childhood hero, Robin Hood. The inspiration for this project was loosely drawn from the intriguing concept of "Nottingham" by Ethan Reiff and Cyrus Voris, considered one of the best films never made.
Here is my process, I hope you enjoy my journey.
LOGLINE
As the newly appointed Sheriff of Nottingham, our hero unravels a plot against the English throne, with all evidence implicating the infamous outlaw, Robin Hood.
IDEATION AND MIND MAP
Initiating a project by mapping out your ideas and establishing connections between them really helps jumpstart the creative process.
PROCESS
Beginning with a static mid-journey AI-generated image featuring one of my main characters (requiring multiple iterations for a convincing resemblance with the actors), I then processed the image through PikaLabs - an AI capable of animating based on a picture and a prompt. Following this, I imported the outcome into After Effects, employing the image as a matte to blend with footage from FilmSupply.
I aimed to incorporate texture to evoke the appearance of aged paintings, capturing the cracks and weathering of time. Additionally, I introduced subtle displacement to breathe life into the AI-generated image, aiming for a more dynamic result. Texturelab is an amazing resource to get some real life texture into your projects. Brady is also an amazing teacher and has some very neat trick in how to get the most out of After Effects.
TYPEFACES
Belmont crafted by Mehmet Reha Tuğcu. With is sharp serif, the typeface fits our cunning hero.
Compositing
Grain, vignette, blur, scratches, bloom – each element contributes to bringing the image to life. Shoutout to Cameron at Motion Science. I really learned a lot from him.
Final Frames
Following this adventure into AI-generated images, I'm truly eager to return to my 3D renders, where I'm the sole decision-maker for all artistic choices.
Credits
Still AI image generation with MidJourney
AI animation with PikaLab
All other footage is provided by FilmSupply
Music track from Ryan Taubert licensed by Musicbed
More process on instagram/vivianmotion
