September 14, 2010 - 18:44 AMT
ARTICLE
Hollywood animators reveal secrets in Armenia
Young Armenian animators had a chance to gain experience from Walt Disney, Warner Brothers and DreamWorks professionals.
Did you know that the authors of Shrek, the beloved animated comedy, could not bind two plot lines for a long time, that the script was written for over 3 years and that the 90-minute film was created on the basis of thin book with uninteresting plot?

This and many other stories were told in Yerevan by Hollywood masters - Max Howard and Frank Gladstone – on the sidelines of ReAnimania 2010 animated film festival.

During 4 days, 4 Armenian talents, who suggested the best ideas for the animation of future had a chance to gain experience from Walt Disney, Warner Brothers and DreamWorks professionals, whose lectures in Europe are welcome, even for a lot of money.

Young animators were told how to find a good story for a film, how to write the script and present it to producer in the best manner. They presented their project and then, following the advice of renowned animators, amended it and on the last training day.

“To make a producer buy your project you must present the plot of your future film in 2-5 minutes to attract his attention and interest him in continuation,” Max Howard says.

“The ‘pitch’ must last no more than 5 minutes and the animator must know the answers to all questions that can be asked afterwards. If you don’t have the answer for a question, it means that you have not completed your work yet. Phrases like ‘it’s hard to explain it’ must not be used,” Frank Gladstone adds.

The masters say that the author should always be ready for unexpected.

According to Howard, 3 components are important for a successful film, these being a realistic environment, good story and appealing heroes.

“When you present your story you must be the actor to make listeners to forget about everything. Sometimes it happens that a poor story is presented well and the film is given a green light. A correct approach is very important,” he says.

In conclusion, the masters advise to watch films, specifically unloved ones, because mistakes of the others can teach a good lesson.

“It’s the beginning of you creative life,” they assure.

Mane Amirjanyan / PanARMENIAN News