Sorry I've been gone for SO long. Life has gotten in the way for the last few months but I am making my new year's resolution now...to get this blog back in gear.

However, today I am going to share something from someone who has become a respected friend. He recently posted his thoughts about how hard it is for an American to get a job in the UK. So, below are his thoughts (which I support). Thank you, Richard Mark Bazley.

I have always believed that The English have far more in common with our American cousins than Europe. I am lucky enough to have a Green Card and know how hard it is for Americans to work in The UK which is a disgrace. We let anyone else in. We should open our borders with the USA not Europe! It would not cause an imbalance influx but a well balanced reciprocal arrangement.
According to the American Community Survey in 2009 data, Americans reporting English ancestry made up an estimated 9.0% of the total U.S. population, and form the third largest European ancestry group after German Americans and Irish Americans.[84] However, demographers regard this as an under count, as the index of inconsistency is high, and many, if not most, people from English stock have a tendency to identify simply as Americans[85][86][87][88] or, if of mixed European ancestry, nominate a more recent and differentiated ethnic group.[89]
In the 2000 United States Census, 24,509,692 Americans described their ancestry as wholly or partly English. In addition, 1,035,133 recorded British ancestry.[90]
In the 1980 United States Census, over 49 million (49,598,035) Americans claimed English ancestry, at the time around 26.34% of the total population and largest reported group which, even today, would make them the largest ethnic group in the United States.[91][92]

Cost of Producing Animation

If you’ve worked in animation for any length of time, I am sure someone has said to you, “I have this great idea for an animation, how much will it cost?” When I hear that question I take a deep breath because yet again I will take time to answer a very complex question. It’s like asking a building contractor how much it costs to build a house, without knowing anything about construction–How many bedrooms? Do you want paint, brick, or stone? Do you want a double oven in the kitchen? How many bathrooms? I spend time explaining the animation process, how the costs vary, etc. So here, I will explain it to those who are new to the industry.

When building a house you usually start with...not the drawings...the BUDGET!  Surprise! The first thing you have to ask yourself is how much do you have to spend? Animation costs vary with style, length, number of characters, complexity of the backgrounds, how fast you need it, etc. I hesitate to put any numbers out but on the LOW end animation costs start around $15K per finished minute for a simple animation. If you think that is high, consider Croods  cost an estimated cost an estimated $135 million to produce. It was 98 minutes so that means it cost $1.4 million PER MINUTE, which is on the low side considering that Toy Story 3 cost out at $1.94 million PER MINUTE and that is before ANY MARKETING costs!

BUT, you say, I have a son, niece, or cousin going to school for animation and you’ve written a script!  Okay, great. First, have you ever written for film or animation before?  And your relative...they are going to do the animation, RIGHT?  Let’s consider, just for argument sake, that an experienced animator takes five days to create seven seconds… (no, not minutes). If you are going to pay their wages for the number of weeks/months/years it will take so they can pay their rent/utilities, phone, car, groceries, purchase equipment/software, etc., not to mention their healthcare…okay, I think you get the point.

Also…animation isn’t just about the art. There are producers, directors, writers, composers, editors, voice talent, bookkeeping, legal and more needed to produce seconds of animation. SO, the next time you consider asking someone to give you a quote for turning your idea into an animation, ask yourself, how much would it cost you for a few months of work…Now, are are you ready to make that call?

Outside the Box

I've often said that I am an "out-of-the-box" thinker.  Yet, sometimes I think that while I claim it, I still fall under the same old paradigms that trap many of us.  Take animation, for instance, it is a way to tell stories using drawn character, for the screen (television, film, etc.) and yet, it is so much more.  And it wasn't until recently, when I've been contemplating the future of Studio Kinate, that I realized the "box" I had built.  Animation isn't just characters telling a story, it is, as Mr. Disney once suggested, a medium with which to conquer worlds!

 I admire Moonbot for how they are beginning to crack through that invisible wall with their short, The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore.  They brought animation into a book and are currently working on an interesting "noir" project with Sony.  There is also a cute story from a French company that is an "interactive" story called, "The Witch with No Name.  Personally, I can see that animation, storytelling, will be combined with technology to form new ways to entertain and educate. There are SO many worlds for us to envision and produce.  We as creative professionals have only scratched the surface of what we can create using animation and technology.  So, let me encourage you today, to put away your preconceived ideas and expand your creative mind, challenge yourself to create outside the box.  Also, remember that just because you're not an animator, there are many ways to create.  Join with artist who draw, musicians, editors, designers, programmers, pool your creativity and serve it piping hot to the world!

So, go and create.  Until next time, this is Momma bear,
Char

I'm BACK! Review of Brave

As much as I love horses, had to choose this picture of

Angus from Brave. Photo from Filmomainia.

It has been a long time since I've written anything so I decided it is time to get back in the habit of posting something related to Studio Kinate and the animation industry.  So, I will begin getting back with a little something about the movie Brave.  


First, I like Brave.  It has been a long time since I've looked forward to owning a DVD/Blu-Ray, but I will look forward to owning this one.  Not just because it is "Pixar's first female lead" but because it is a good film and a great story.  Written by Brenda (Chapman) (I don't know why she wasn't able to finish directing the film), I feel as a mother--with a daughter--I could relate to the mother/daughter dynamics.  It's a good family film, although parts may be too scary for preschool children. 


I thought the visuals were stunning and really take you into Merida's world. I loved all the colors and textures. I've never been to Scotland but it is on my bucket list!  I thought the storytelling was strong and comedy was appropriate and helped breakup some of the tension.  I would suggest a tissue or two... 


If you haven't seen Brave, go.  Bring your sons; they will love the humor (and big sisters will relate to the little brothers...lol). It isn't a "chic flick" just because it is about a princess..!  


Okay, sorry I've been gone so long.  You can always check out the Studio Kinate FB page and Twitter for posting related to animation, films and related current topics.


ONWARD and UPWARD!
Char

Lion King's Success NOT 3D

I just got done reading an article about the success of Lion King 3D and it infuriated me.  Okay, I will admit to going to see it NOT because I wanted to see it in 3D but because I wanted to see it.  We took our 10 year old grand son, who enjoyed the film but kept taking off the glasses because they were giving him a headache.  I watched parents with younger children, letting them watch the film WITHOUT the glasses because little ones don't like to wear them thus frustrating parents and the youngsters.  


SO, Disney, WHY?  Why waste time and money converting a beautiful film into something we are FORCED to watch in 3D.  As a grandparent, I will have second thoughts about taking younger viewers to go see any other classics because I don't want to subject them to seeing the film destroyed since they won't wear the glasses!  In the words of my grandson..., "Oma, why didn't they just add extra scenes or something like that rather than make it 3D?  


So, again Disney?  WHY?


Okay, that's the end of my rant.  

The Illusionist: My comments

As I watched this beautifully crafted movie, I was amazed at the artistry but disappointed at the lack of story.  So what is the purpose of creating a film? Is it for the art? Or is it for the story.  


For me, it must be a combination.  Without the art, you lose the visuals, without the story, you lose the heart.  And since I don't want to say much more than that, I will say that if you want to see the film in the theater, okay. You will enjoy the art.  Otherwise, stay home and watch it when it comes out on DVD.  Then rent it, unless you like to collect art....


Until next time, keep your imagination, unlimited.
Char

Tangled: Char's review

I've now seen Tangled four times, twice in 3D (stereoscopic) and twice in standard.  In my opinion, it was a beautiful film and I LOVED it in the standard version.  Frankly, I find 3D to be distracting AND dull.  I'm not talking about the story, I'm mean the image on the screen.   The CG characters looked like dolls but it was still a good fairytale.  There were aspects of the movie that I felt made the story predictable, mainly the boat scene (ala Little Mermaid) and a scene that has been used in Beauty and the Beast and Princess and the Frog  (not to mention a DreamWorks film).  Though I love traditional animation (whether hand drawn or "tradigital"), I thought the CG was beautifully executed.  The story was rich (unlike Princess and the Frog), the music was awesome (reminded me of other Disney films), and the characters had heart! But, WHY CG?
CG normally costs at least twice as much as to produce traditional animation.  Compare the two recent "princess" films. Tangled had an estimated $260M budget while The Princess and the Frog had a budget of $105M. Though, The Princess and the Frog wasn't a considered a box office success, it did bring in $267M internationally. Time will tell if Tangled will be able to exceed other recent Disney films but it has a long way to go to beat the record of other films released in 2010.  Personally, I feel the film would have been more beautiful in traditional animation, the budget would have been lower and the film would be a bigger financial success.  I believe that this was a missed opportunity for Disney to prove that it isn't technique but story that is the box office draw.   
Still, it is a beautiful film.  I loved the use of camera shots and I LOVED the humor. I paid close attention to the audience, everyone, including the guys were enjoying this film.  There was healthy humor and everyone laughed.  My favorite scene is the dance scene because  movement and music was AWESOME and made me wish for more (this movie will transition to the stage very well, although I'm not sure how they will create the character of Max...).
Bottom line: If you haven't seen it yet, please watch Tangled. 
See you next year and as always, keep your imagination unlimited! 
Char

The timeless lessons of a "One Room" School House

When I was young I attended a "one-room" school.  For those who are unfamiliar, imagine students from K-12 having one teacher.  I know some of you think this would be total chaos but the success of that type of school can be attributed in part to older students acting as teaching assistants, helping younger students with assignments.  They also watched over younger students during recess, which was a time of play and more learning for everyone.  This memory was triggered while I read Innovate the Pixar Way by Bill Capodagli and Lynn Jackson, specifically the chapter "Ready Set, Go!" Now I see there are timeless lessons in that old school experience.  Everything was about family, just like my vision for Studio Kinate.  I can see the benefit of a multi tiered model where we mentor, support and develop together.  It is important not to copy but to innovate.

Next year is going to be the first of many busy years for Studio Kinate. We will begin production on animations for the Office of Naval Research under the leadership of Rusty Mills.  We will be prioritizing our production schedule, developing our stories, meeting clients, seeking investors, attending conferences/workshops/seminars, etc.  WHEW!  In the midst of that beehive of activity, and no matter how big Studio Kinate becomes, I will remember to observe the lessons of the one-room school—no one is left out ,and we’ll make work and learning FUN!

Studio Kinate Hires Sr. VP of Animation

I've delayed making this announcement, because I am a perfectionist and I wanted all the right words, pictures, etc.  However, the only thing that  perfection does is preventing me from sharing my excitement announcing Studio Kinate's VP of Animation.

RUSTY MILLS is joining Studio Kinate as the Senior Vice President of Animation.  In the long term, Rusty "General," will oversee all the creative projects at the studio.  Beginning in January, Rusty will be the director and producer of the animated production for the Office of Naval Research, C-DEW training.  Rusty recently taught our first Toon Boom workshop and will also be utilized teaching workshops for the studio. 

As I've said in my last post, I needed to "go the distance" and that means I have to make commitments and go for the best and with Rusty Mills, I am taking those first steps.  I want the best leadership available so that we can make the biggest impact on the industry.  I want those yet-to-be animators to be challenged to create the best stories and I truly believe these two people will help me make that happen.


Look out world, here comes Studio Kinate!


Until next time, believe in your dreams and let your IMAGINATION be UNLIMITED!


Char

Studio Kinate: "Field of Dreams" Part III

Go the Distance!

2009 Studio Kinate Concept Art

When considering your dream, you will set short-term goals that will help you achieve your vision, which is the focus of this, my "Field of Dreams" blog.  In part I, I shared about building Studio Kinate.  It was about building a studio,  one that will be different.  Part II it was "ease [their] pain" about the artists/animators.  After all, without them what IS the point? This brings me to the final stage, going the distance, and this truly is the hardest part of the journey.  Allow me to take you back to the movie.


Near the end of the film much had been revealed to Ray but uncertainty still hung over his head.  He was on the verge of losing his farm, the bank was ready to foreclose.  The choices before him seemed to be keep the field and be evicted or sell the farm.  He looks at the field of players, his family and the sales contract.  How will HE decide?


I know only too well the emotions and the strain that Ray must have experienced.  I've pushed our finances (with the support of my husband) to the utter edge. However, I know this is the thing I am supposed to to.  I have seen the future and it is bright and wonderful.  I have talked to those industry professionals who tell me the vision is good and the approach is right.  Despite how it may look, I choose to "Go the Distance."  Studio Kinate IS the first woman owned animation studio!  This studio IS about developing strong CHARACTERS and STORY!  This studio IS about the ANIMATORS and ARTISTS!  This studio IS making history! And I WILL move forward and not look back.


And so, I pass this on to you.  You cannot copy what someone else has done to achieve your dream; however, you CAN learn from them.  You will have successes AND failures.  Study the failures of others and learn from yours.  Set your goals and work to achieve them.  Attend critiques and workshops. If you want to be a writer, write and read.  If you want to be an artist, take classes from the best teachers (even if you have to travel!).  If you want to be an animator, study the masters and (in the words of Larry Lauria) DRAW, DRAW, DRAW!   

Well, ladies and gentleman, next week I will be making a very important announcement.  I am VERY excited about the new year so during the coming holiday season I am going to be reflecting on this past year and what lies ahead for Studio Kinate.  So until next time, keep your vision alive and let your IMAGINATION be UNLIMITED!

Studio Kinate: "Field of Dreams" Part II

Ease [their] Pain

For those who haven't seen the movie, let me set it up for you. After Ray builds the field, he waits and waits, is about to give up when, ta-da, Shoeless Joe Jackson shows up.  The next day, Joe shows up with some of his old team mates so Ray and Annie enjoy a few days watching them play.  Suddenly, the voice returns: "Ease his pain." "Whose pain?!"  shouts Ray.  Whose pain is my question.


When I started out on this adventure, I knew two things.  Where I was and where I wanted to be.  My biggest questions were how do I get there and who  will this benefit?  Young (or not-so-young) wanna be animators? Traditional animators? Professionals who've left California/NY? Women? Like Ray, I may think I know the answer to that question but each day I learn about another level of pain that animators, audiences and other artists feel.  I can't ease all their pain alone, but I can bring together an amazing team (family) and together we can build something fantastic!


Why ease their pain?  Because the system, in my opinion is broken.  Jobs are being shipped overseas, artists, unlike many other professionals, feel threatened, intimidated, and used. I feel it is time that they be given the respect they deserve.  They are professionals.  They deserve to work in an environment where they are respected, where their ideas have worth and they have careers rather than jobs.  


Studio Kinate is making difference for artists, animators and audiences and more is yet to come. Young people are working and learning from professionals and veterans. Writers have developed original content.  Musicians are composing songs that will set our animated stories apart.  


To "ease their pain," we have to be different.  Our characters have to be grounded in strong stories. And, of course, our Animation needs to be Unlimited!

Q & A with Rusty Mills

Join us for a fun evening with animator, director and producer, Rusty Mills. This will be taking place at the National Convention Center in Lansdowne, Virginia from 7-9 pm.  Email us for directions at: contact@studiokinate.com or call 703.587.3676.


Children are welcome!

Studio Kinate: "Field of Dreams" Part I

Part I: "If you build it, they will come."
I love the movie, Field of Dreams and when I was watching it the other night I started thinking about the three "tasks" that Ray had to complete in light of my dream to build Studio Kinate.
"If you build it [they] will come"; "ease [their] pain"; and "go the distance."


When I started this journey, I was spurred into action by the young animators I had come to know at my job as manager of the Mason Media Lab.  They had talent and ability but getting jobs after college was difficult at best.  Part of the problem was that their educators didn't prepare them.  Many institutes do not understand how to prepare artists for the field.  They can prepare doctors, lawyers, scientists and engineers, but these same institutes have NO idea how to prepare animators to work in the industry.  (I'll table that soapbox for now). I loved working with these artists and they enjoyed working for me.  When they commented that they wished they could work for me fulltime, I thought about my dreams.  I had wished I could be an animator but that dream was beyond my reach (artistic instincts, yes, able to draw, NO).  But what about an employer? Then I started researching and I realized that I had put my dream in a box called "animator." What about building a studio?


Build a studio, okay, how crazy is that!  I'd need millions of dollars, right? Then I started thinking, how much would it really take?  Money I didn't have, but I'm a farm girl so I was willing to work for it.  I would find those with  money who would love to be part of an animation studio.  Others have squandered many millions!  But this studio has to be unique.


Studio Kinate is unique; so is the woman in charge.  If I built it, what would it look like? What would make it different from those studios already in existence?  HELLO!  Wo-Man!  LOL  First major difference!  Okay, I know that's obvious, but as a woman I look at business differently.  I am a nurturer; relationships are VERY important to me.  So my studio has to be about the ones who create the stories, the worlds, the characters.  After all, without that talent, what's the point.  I also know how to get by on less but that does NOT mean I sacrifice quality.  Producing Pete's Odyssey proved that we could do more with less.  It also proved that if you set high expectations, people will rise to meet them.  Those young people in NJ did the work of professional animators because we expected of them and with Larry Lauria at the helm, they did amazing work.


Second, location: VIRGINIA?  REALLY crazy, right? WRONG! I thought it would be difficult to ask people to move to this area until I learned that there are a number of veteran animators as well as young talent already here and more who have lost jobs in NY/CA either because of closing, downsizing or outsourcing who would love to move here.  Virginia has a lot to offer, including a technology corridor.  It is great for families.  Close to the Nation's Capitol, rich in history.  (BTW--I'm from Washington State, which I LOVE but Virginia is my new home).


Technology!  Yep, we have our own technology corridor and thanks to tech advances there is a whole new realm available to Studio Kinate, both in production and HOW we produce.  Paperless drawing, painting, sketching, editing, recording, you name it...and while I still love to watch artists use paper, paints, pencils, etc., (those will always have a place in our productions) there are now tools that allow us to digitize the art.  Videoconferencing is also a valuable tool, enabling animators to telecommute.  Face time is extremely important and will be required, but they won't always have to be in the office to produce OR mentor.


Community/Family.  THIS is a BIG one and very important to me.  When I gave up my paying job to build Studio Kinate, like Ray in Field of Dreams, my family and I sacrificed a great deal. But this isn't about me, it is about them.  In the movie, it was about Ray's father.  "If you build it, he will come."  He did, and they are.  Over the last couple of months, I have been amazed at the people I've gotten to know.  I am learning that these artist's are very close.  They watch out for each other.  They love family and community.  Many teach, they love the idea of mentoring.  I know there are "showboats" out there, but I've met the most genuine people, professionals who are becoming fast friends.


And so, I have built it and they are coming.  My "brain trust" is taking shape and very soon, we will make some amazing announcements.  As always, I cherish your thoughts, advice and prayers.  Studio Kinate isn't about me, never will be, it is about the stories and the storytellers, both known and yet to be. My advice to you, be willing to modify your dream, take a leap of faith and as always, let your imagination be unlimited!

Rusty Mills to Teach Mid Atlantic Toon Boom Workshop in November!

I want to take a moment to share this exciting news with you, my faithful friends, family and fans.  I am thrilled to announce that Rusty Mills will be teaching our first Toon Boom workshop, scheduled for November 1-5.  We are offering some additional options and discounts to help make it available to as many of you as I can, including reducing the price, providing shorter workshop options (you can now attend Day 1 only, or Day 1 and 2).  For those who are students, educators or government employees, we have additional discounts, and finally, if three or more of you sign up, I will offer another (unadvertised) discount.  If you are interested in a group rate, email me at: char@studiokinate.com.
http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010-10-8/RustyTeachesToonBoom/prweb4627904.htm
Rusty regularly teaches these and other animation workshops on the West Coast, so this is an unprecedented opportunity.  If you are able to provide a scholarship for a struggling animator, please contact me via email.


Continue to dream with me!  
Best
Char

My One Year Blog Anniversary!

Larry and I with the animators at Bloomfield College.

I was looking over my old posts and suddenly realized that one year ago yesterday I started my blog!  Wow, so much has happened!  We finished Pete's Odyssey and she started her run in the festivals!  The Washington Post ran the story about us in the Sunday Magazine.  I've connected with some amazing men and women from the industry and am making fast friends with people I've admired.  


But more than that, I've stayed connected with people who helped bring "Pete" to life.  Larry, Michelle, Sarah, Francis, Lynne, Vinny, Humera, the list goes on and on.  As for Pete's Odyssey she's awards and numerous official festival selections. She's listed in IMDB and now can be viewed online in the Animatron, the Babelgum Animation Film Festival and there's more fun and adventures ahead as Larry and I discuss her next adventures. Maybe some webisodes? online games? apps?  Stay tuned.


And it keeps getting better.  Studio Kinate has been awarded a contract with the Office of Naval Research (ONR)!  We are excited to begin the research and development of animated teaching aids for one of their research programs.  


Lastly, is the upcoming Toon Boom Workshop.  This is the FIRST workshop of its kind in the Mid Atlantic area, so we are proud to be offering this to those illustrators, artists and animators who desire to advance their skills.  I am hoping to make some more news to share about that very soon. 


So, it has been an incredible journey for us this year and it has only begun.  I can honestly say that my fears used to limit my dreams so if that is you, climb out of the box that hinders you and let your imagination be unlimited!
Char

How do I get land a job in Animation?

In the last few months I've received many reels and resumes from people wanting a job at Studio Kinate and without exception, those people who come from schools where drawing and traditional animation skills are taught are the ones who rise to the top.  


Oh, I can hear the moans and groans out there but it isn't about style (2D vs 3D), it is about ability!  You may be able to do some nice stuff in Maya or can work your way around Flash, but if you don't know or understand the basics of squash and stretch, design a character who can express emotion, then you will need to learn it before getting hired or even get an internship at Studio Kinate. And if you think I'm harsh, then check out this clip of John Lasseter giving advice to aspiring animators.  John Lasseter: Advice for aspiring animation student?


So, if you want to work at Studio Kinate, get out your paper, pencil and books on animation.  THEN, send me your animatics.  That will tell me more about your skills than a polished reel.  Show me your work and I will show you the money.


Until next time, spread your wings, draw leaves swirling in the wind and let your imagination be unlimited.
Char  

The Difference of 24 Hours

Yesterday, we launched Studio Kinate's website and now there has been this tremendous shift in our universe (I will be making another announcement this weekend, so stay tuned).  I woke up no longer the woman trying to build a business to being president of a studio.  With that comes a new set of responsibilities and challenges but some things didn't change, I'm still me.  I am still Louis' Oma, Tonya's mom and Bill's wife.  I just happen to be a president.


Tis short but sweet.  
The universe is infinite and my imagination is unlimited!
Char

Studio Kinate's Website Goes LIVE!

Okay, now for a little me time.  If has been awhile, check out the new digs at Studio Kinate!  Thanks to the hard work of Linda and Lisa, we have a fantastic looking website.  WE ARE ALIVE!!!!


www.studiokinate.com

What is the Meaning of Success for You?

The other night I watched the 2009 movie, Fame.  I'm not going to get into the shortcoming of this film I really want to talk about success.  There is a dialog near the end of the movie that inspired me. Here it is:

There are some things success is not; it's not fame, it's not money or power. Success is waking up in the morning so excited about what you have to do that you literally fly out the door.  It's getting to work with people you love. Success is connecting with the world and making people feel.  It's finding a way to bind together people who have nothing in common but a dream.  It's falling asleep at night knowing you did the best job you could.  Success is joy and freedom and friendship .. and success is love.

I needed to be reminded about what is MY meaning of success and it comes down to the fact that I LOVE animators.  I love their passion and their ability to create worlds from imagination.  I love that they can take still images and make them move with such graceful flow, that it boggles my mind.  I love the unlimited possibilities that are just around the corner for Studio Kinate and our family of artists.  And despite what may seem like setbacks to me, are perfect timing for what will be. I love the success that comes each day even when it is hard for me to see it. 


Studio Kinate is our success story.  


Until next time, believe that YOUR imagination is unlimited and you will fly!
Char 

Vote for Pete's Odyssey at Animatron!

Pete's Odyssey was an amazing production and she is now available to view online through the Babelgum Film Festival.  We have a chance to win $20,000!  Voting is through October 10th and right now we are in second place for the most views and votes!  So pass the word and help push and keep us on the top!


Here is the link: http://www.babelgum.com/6001175/petes-odyssey.html

Keep your imagination open to unlimited possibilities!

Char