Moonrise Kingdom
A re-interpreted title sequence and animation for the movie “Moonrise Kingdom.” The story focuses on the adventure of two main characters, Sam and Suzy. They are defined as “different” and isolated in their community. One day they decided to escape to find another world with freedom and acceptance.
We derived a storyline based on the plots by creating a scene of planning—an imagined workspace for Sam and Suzy within a suitcase. In the movie, we see them escape but barely know their thoughts, plans, and preparation for the escape. We are so curious about what it could be like.
Collaborator: Alan Jiang Software: C4D, AE, PS
Animation
Process
Movie Screenshots
Wes Anderson (director) has a distinctive style in his films. We are trying to avoid but also tell the story.
Reference board
How would a nine-year-old plan an escape? Inspired by my own experience, we have created colorful sticky notes, scribbles, drawings, train of thoughts, swears, etc.
Moodboard
It’s about two in-love children’s adventure. The mood would be warm, nostalgic, and bright.
Lighting Reference
To achieve a childish mood, soft and gentle lighting in a homely and safe environment inspired us.
Style Reference
Framing Experiment
We are framing and testing out different camera angles in IKEA.
Typeface
We choose the typeface with an exciting shape and arch to coherently with the childish and adventurous vibe.
Storyboard
Starting from the contents on the sticky notes, we gradually reveal the objects representing Sam and Suzy. Then slowly pull out to reveal the room within the suitcase.
Illustrations
Based on the story plots, we have drawn several illustrations and imagined letters for Sam and Suzy. To stand on Sam and Suzy’s mindset of what would they depict.
Production
We have struggled with the environment that is outside of the suitcase. We know the suitcase represents the escape, but what is outside of it? Following the question, we have come up with another surreal environment representing the adventure and unknown ahead of them.
Ideas and inspiration could come from our own experiences. I enjoyed this project because it not only brings back the nostalgic memory of my childhood but also reminds me of the innocence, freedom, and carefree spirit I once had. Now I realize that we could all enjoy lives like children.