“Focus is getting away from quality and story telling. But it should not” began Nelson Recinos at his keynote address.
“3D began looking good because Pixar was interested in telling good stories and on the outstanding quality of the animation. They are outstanding, they focus on quality and great product, the money follows. That has to be the focus for anyone in this business. It is not about 2D, 3D or any other medium in animation. The question is Are you connecting with the audience?” pointed out Recinos.
The veteran has been in the animation space for more than past 26 years having worked on Scooby Doo & He Man as animator, and on Animaniacs, Pinky and the Brain, Oswald as director. Presently the shows that Nelson is working on include GameAccess which is in the process of becoming a multiplatform IP.
Giving a message to the audience, Recinos shared, “I would say really study the shows that are succesful and try and absorb from them. Observe the works of the leading animation directors like Brad Bird or of legends like Glenn Keane, Ollie Johnston. A strong base is very very important. You have to understand the audience and look at what‘s mainstream, it has to be liked by a universal audience. Come up with global concepts.”
He also mentioned that mentors were very important in our industry and that one should always look for inspiration and guidance. “Read the books of the great animators like Illusion of Life and Animator‘s Survival Kit”
Recently I became an independent producer, I thought it was time for me to start working on my own ideas. You have a little more creative control, produce your own ideas, pitch to studios work from concept to post production..I got to know a lot more about the entire process including copyrights, legal etc…..I also realised that I needed business skills so I went back to school for a business degree. There are two different worlds, the artisitic side and the business side.
“Working on doing Budgets was important, allocation … you learn that as you go also. Researching the market, find market data. Hire quality and professionals people you may have to pay a little more but you get a lot more. Slots are very tight to break into in terms of broadcast, there are some animation business books that you need to read which talk about budgets.Making a pilot is very very essential. Bible Pitch is good but the animation and visuals help a lot more. In any industry, you really have to have the passion. Easy is not easy, but the rewards are great when they come, not just economically but also the feeling of seeing your shows on TV” shared Nelson.
Lisitng down what makes Iconic Shows, Nelson shared….
What makes Iconic shows?
You have to be aware of whats going on, some key elements include
– Strong Concept, Idea – You want the shows to last for a long time,
– Great Writing – It is very important to have a great writing team.
– Boy girl Appeal –
– Likeable Characters – Tom & Jerry – universal appeal thats timeless and ageless
– Drama
– Humor
– Action
– Adventure
You necessarily need not have all the elements, but if you have amost of them, it will be a success..