About
VISUAL REPRESENTATION OF PIGEONS
“The Pigeons” is a situational dark comedy with an animated visual style that combines caricatured characters with semi-realistic, dark/urban atmosphere. The visual elements of the project are created using a combination of Unreal Engine 5 and Blender software, ensuring high-quality rendering and an immersive atmosphere.
CHARACTERS
The caricatured characters of “Pigeons” have exaggerated proportions and distinctive, quirky characteristics that add comedic elements to the show. The overall color palette is directed towards dark grays and muted tones, reflecting the genre of dark comedy. Character design emphasizes comedic expressions and physicality while maintaining a semi-realistic touch, allowing for a unique and appealing visual experience. The color of the pigeons is approximated to realistic color palettes of this bird species, with slight variations for easier distinction and emphasis on certain features.
ENVIRONMENTS
Environments are designed with a gloomy, melancholic aesthetic. With the capabilities of Unreal Engine 5, detailed details and atmospheric lighting are displayed, contributing to the overall tone. The scenes are set in urban environments, creating a contrast between the comedic antics of the characters and the harsh environment, adding humor to the show. Pigeons will inhabit the old post office on Post Street 2. The office comprises a reception area, a conference room, Frank’s office, a restroom, and a storage room (referred to as Johnny’s room). The furnishings in the office consist of old and discarded human items or garbage. The pigeons will use these items in their own way, which is typically unconventional.
ANIMATION
In the series, we will use 12 frames per second (12 fps) for character animation and 24 frames per second (24 fps) for camera animation. The combination creates a special visual style for several reasons:
Nostalgic aesthetics: Using animation at 12 frames/s for characters can evoke a sense of nostalgia for traditional hand-drawn animation or older animated films. Many classic animations, such as early Disney films or some anime series, were animated with lower frame rates. This style brings back the magic and charm of the past, appealing to certain audiences.
Artistic expression: Animation is a form of art, and deliberately choosing a lower frame rate for character animation is an artistic choice. It allows animators to emphasize certain movements and poses, giving each frame more meaning and impact. Reduced fluidity and greater visibility of individual frames enhance the expression and uniqueness of the characters.
Contrast and focus: By creating a contrast between character animation at 12 frames/s and camera animation at 24 frames/s, we create a juxtaposition that draws attention to both components. The smoother camera movements provide a stable and dynamic background against which characters move at a slower and stylized pace. This contrast enhances the overall visual appeal and creates a unique visual style of animation.
Economy: Animation at 12 frames/s for characters, combined with camera animation at 24 frames/s, can be a practical choice. A higher frame rate requires more resources, including time and computer power, to create smooth and fluid animations. By using a lower frame rate for characters, animators can save time and resources while still achieving visually compelling results.
Story impact: The choice of frame rate also impacts the narrative. Slower character animation can serve to convey a certain mood or tone. It can create a sense of deliberation, weight, or even dreamlike quality, depending on the context of the story. By contrasting this with smoother camera movements, you can create a visually appealing storytelling technique.
The Drive
Why Pigeons? Well, why not? We already brought cats, dogs, dinosaurs, robots, boxes, cylinders, lines, and even humans to life. Now we want to do hilarious stories with pigeons.
Matic: “In the year 2015, during summer vacation I got a “lightbulb moment” when my wife miscalled Galeb (Seagull) with Golob (Pigeon). Stories start to unravel in my head. But I didn’t know back then how to frame them. Years after I have the opportunity to work with some really talented people. I presented them with my idea. They have got the same moment. Gags, ideas, and stories started to fly out of their heads. They want to be a part of it. I knew I was on something big.”
With pigeons, we have endless possibilities for stories. They live practically in every corner of the world. There are many breeds, different shapes, and sizes. Every roof, window, shelf, road, trash, bench, lamp, graveyard, statue, sign, … can be a unique setting inside the human world. We will put our gags “to the edge” with well-developed characters. After people will watch our show, they will go into the city park, watch the pigeons and think “what if there is really some crazy s*** going on”.
To bring something back to our local community, we will nest our pigeons in our lovely small city Kranj, Slovenia, which will be recreated inside Unreal. It’s a good way to promote our city and settle the score with grumpy people.
The Team
MATIC PERČIČ – Creative Lead & Animation Specialist Extraordinaire!
With a decade of industry expertise under my belt, I’ve been orchestrating the enchanting world of animation since my graduation from Animation Mentor in 2019. Presently, I am proud to contribute my talents as an animator at Super Spline Studios, where we specialize in crafting exceptional game animations that captivate audiences worldwide.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of directing animation projects such as Miniseries Muri and Angela’s music video, showcasing my ability to seamlessly blend creativity with technical precision. Additionally, my involvement in conceptualizing The Lost Bots and executing stereoscopic animation for the national park Papuk has earned me industry recognition, including the DSAF Award for Best Animator in 2020.
Beyond animation, I excel in troubleshooting and optimizing production pipelines, continually embracing emerging technologies and techniques to enhance workflow efficiency and creative output.
To make my story short, I am dedicated to delivering unparalleled quality and innovation within the dynamic realm of animation. Whether you seek captivating storytelling or innovative solutions, rest assured, with me at the helm, your animation aspirations are in capable hands.
ROK BOHINC – Storyteller Extraordinaire!
As a standup comedian, writer, and proud owner of a dad bod, I’ve been weaving tales and tickling funny bones with my unique brand of humor for years. In 2021, I penned and self-published the uproarious young adult crime comedy, Smrdljivc, which skyrocketed to the top of Slovenian bestseller lists and is currently undergoing adaptation into a television script.
Beyond the written word, I’m a multifaceted talent, serving as an actor, writer, and host of the popular youth show, Osvežilna fronta, on national television (RTV SLO). My comedic prowess extends to various satirical and comedy TV shows, including Ta teden z Juretom Godlerjem (Planet TV), Kaj dogaja z Jonasom Žnidaršičem? (RTV SLO), Mali šef Slovenije, Zvezde Plešejo (Dancing With The Stars), Slovenija ima talent (Slovenia’s Got Talent), and Vid in Pero šov (POP TV).
Moreover, I’ve lent my talents to the production of sketch comedy shows like Skečoholiki, where laughter knows no bounds. However, amidst the whirlwind of my professional endeavors, perhaps the most profound and cherished role I have is being a father to a young boy who just started making his major debut in this world.
In essence, my journey is one of laughter, storytelling, and the pursuit of creative excellence. Whether on stage, on screen, or within the pages of a book, I am committed to spreading joy and merriment wherever my tales may take me.
DINO KAPETANOVIĆ – The Maestro of Mirth and Madness!
Ever heard of a comedic whirlwind? Well, that’s me in a nutshell! As an improviser, stand-up comedian, and actor, I’ve been tickling funny bones and leaving audiences in stitches for as long as I can remember. From impromptu laughs to carefully crafted jokes, I’ve mastered the art of turning everyday moments into comedic gold.
But hey, I’m not just a one-trick pony! Nope, I’ve also dabbled in the world of scriptwriting for TV shows and radio, spinning tales that’ll have you rolling on the floor laughing. And let’s not forget about those viral comedy videos on the internet – yep, I’ve co-written and starred in more than a few, spreading joy and hilarity across cyberspace like a digital Pied Piper of comedy!
Now, you might be wondering, “Where’s Dino right now?” Well, I’ll let you in on a little secret – I’m probably somewhere unjustifiably shirtless, basking in the glorious freedom of comedic expression! After all, who needs a shirt when you’ve got jokes that’ll make your sides ache with laughter?
So, buckle up and get ready for a rollercoaster ride of hilarity, because with me, every moment is an opportunity for laughter and merriment. Welcome to the wacky world of Dino – where comedy reigns supreme and shirts are optional!
TILEN JAVORNIK – Where Art Meets Imagination!
As a 2D artist entrenched in the vibrant realm of visual development for animation, I am fueled by an unyielding passion for storytelling in all its myriad forms. Whether through the strokes of a brush or the pixels on a screen, I endeavor to weave narratives that transport audiences to fantastical worlds and evoke a myriad of emotions.
At Invida, I proudly serve as the lead story artist, where I have lent my artistic prowess to iconic brands such as Muri the Cat, My Talking Angela, Talking Tom and Friends, The Lost Bots, and beyond. Through meticulous storyboarding, I breathe life into characters and scenarios, crafting immersive visual experiences that resonate with viewers on a profound level.
My artistic journey has been adorned with accolades, including the prestigious titles of winner of the 2016 Thought Bubble Portfolio competition and the Stripolis Mexican Inferno competition. Additionally, my creative footprint can be found gracing the esteemed pages of publications such as 2000AD and numerous Onyx Path game lines, including Hunter: The Vigil and Mummy: The Curse.
But wait, there’s more! I also showcase my artistic flair in the realm of print media, crafting a monthly editorial strip for the Megafon news outlet, where my illustrations add a dash of whimsy and insight to current affairs.
In essence, my work transcends mere visuals – it is a testament to the power of storytelling and the boundless realms of imagination. Join me on this artistic odyssey, where every stroke of the brush is a step closer to unlocking the wonders of the human spirit.
JERNEJ ŽMITEK – A Visionary Director with a Flair for Innovation!
Hailing from the picturesque town of Kranj, Slovenia, and born in the vibrant year of 1981, I’ve always harbored a passion for storytelling that knows no bounds.
As an animator, producer, and director, I’ve had the privilege of leaving my mark on an eclectic array of projects, spanning from captivating films and TV commercials to mesmerizing music videos and promotional content. With each endeavor, I strive to infuse my unique creative vision, aiming to captivate audiences and evoke emotion.
At the esteemed production studio, Invida, I’ve emerged as one of the most seasoned directors, spearheading projects with precision and panache. My directorial debut, the enchanting short animated film Zippity Zappity, clinched the coveted VESNA award for Best Short Animated Film at the prestigious Slovenian Film Festival in 2015 – a testament to my dedication and talent.
Currently, I’m at the helm of the miniseries Muri the Cat, orchestrating its whimsical journey with finesse and imagination. My directorial prowess was further acknowledged in 2020 when I was honored with the DSAF Award for Best Director, recognizing my outstanding work on the 4th episode of Muri the Cat – The Big Game.
But my journey doesn’t stop there – fueled by a relentless drive for innovation, I boldly integrated Unreal Engine into our production pipeline, revolutionizing our approach to visual storytelling. This bold leap paved the way for the successful completion of groundbreaking projects such as Papuk, Angela’s music video, and The Lost Bots, where I assumed the dual roles of director and Unreal Engine artist.
My creative journey is a testament to the boundless possibilities that lie at the intersection of passion, innovation, and storytelling. With every project, I endeavor to push the boundaries of imagination, crafting experiences that linger in the hearts and minds of audiences long after the curtains close.