Character Concept art for The Magpie

Not only have I been developing the characters, I've started to pin down an aesthetic for the film, one that I hope Jake can replicate in his 3D-rendered backgrounds. The style is very washed out and watercolour, but whatever level Jake reaches in his mission to capture it will be just fine, as it's unique-looking enough to look nice.


Having discussed the film with tutor Neil Housego, his innate knack for character design and shape dynamics bubbled forth and he developed a completely different style for the character of the tall man.
Instead of being lanky and bird-like, with a round head and no chin, he is bulkier, more sullen-looking and has a big red nose, indicating that he has a cold (to further warrant the handkerchief). His new design lends itself better to the idea of being downtrodden and miserable, which makes the final scene of the film, where he rescues the boy and consequently softens in his demeanour, all the more poignant.

Furthermore, a change in his appearance demonstrates a change in heart. Whereas he's initially made of lots of straight lines - smart hair, furrowed prow, deadpan mouth, upright walk - he softens after saving the boy. His hair, slightly ruffled by his rescue attempt, has more of a curve to it, his eyebrows are raised to a couple of compassionate arcs, and he smiles.