This was a university project for the course “3D Visualization”. The general theme given by my university for guiding this project was “Microverse”. Background plates were provided, with a selection of different camera shots to choose from. I selected a shot of a tree branch.

From that point onward, everything else was open to my creativity. I developed a storyboard and created drawings of the Wizard character. Using the drawings as a base, I built the 3D model and rig of the Wizard. I made the lower part of the coat and the sleeves, behave physically accurate by applying cloth simulation to some areas. This also helped make the movement of the Wizard more realistic, as the fabrics flowed more realistic rather than having to try and animate it manually.

For compositing, I shot some elements of burning steel wool, which was used for the magical appearance of the Wizard and for the sparks of the burning tree branch.

Although it wasn’t a requirement, I also created a soundtrack with partially self-recorded sounds. For example, I recorded the sound of dry cornflakes being crushed to get some walking sounds and a broomstick hitting the floor to mimic the Wizard’s walking stick.

It was a project that I really enjoyed and learned a lot from in the process.