Laugh Yoga : Laughter is the Best Medicine

This week, in the Acting and Movement class, a new class I'm teaching this quarter for the animation students, we experienced Laugh Yoga.  In essence, you do exercises as a group to induce laughter. At first the laughter is fake, but in a group, where everyone is doing it, and you make eye contact with person next to you, you can't help but get all giddy and giggly. Eventually, a real laugh arises and that's the goal. Laughing reduces stress, and increases hormone levels that promote relaxation. Its all good. 

The first clip is from a foreign TV show where the host can't stop laughing at his guests, I crack up every time I watch it, and so I'm posting here every time I need a good laugh. Its always more funny when you are laughing in a situation where it is rude or inappropriate to laugh.

And the second clip is a documentary by John Cleese on Laugh Yoga that was featured on the BBC. Keep laughing, stay positive and be healthy. 

Citroen Car Commercial :: Robots Everywhere II

I wanted to post this Citroen car animation for inspiration. I saw it many years ago, and it still scores very high in my book for entertainment value. Its a great simple concept, the robot's got some great dance moves, and the soundtrack is catchy. 

After you watch this, be sure to view the parody below.

Enjoy!

And of course the parady.....

And a new Citroen commercial...

Adding Music To Your Demo Reel

When putting together a demo reel, one often asks if I should put music on it. Of course you should, however be sure the song does not distract from the work, and that its a soundtrack that adds to the overall mood of your reel. Many times, recruiters will turn the sound off, which is fine, they see lots of demo reels throughout the day, and with the music turned off, they can focus on the actual work, and not have the music be a distraction. 

More often than not however, it is best to have music. I've been in portfolio reviews where the person has no music at all, and the demo reel is a drag to view, and it gives the illusion that its too long. Do do yourself a favor by picking a song that you like, which compliments your work.

 

Having said that, I wanted to post these visual effects because their choice of music is unique. They are good examples of musical contrast, the soundtrack does not necessarily match the mood of the images being displayed, but changes it to make for an interesting presentation. 

Check these reels out to see what I mean. Not only do they present an interesting unique soundtrack, but also, excellent professional CG work.  Their music selection for the most part is fun, and gives the work a lighthearted lift. Enjoy!

Other things to remember is the pacing of your music. Some songs pick up in tempo, make sure the tempo picks up sooner than later, and see if you can time your editing to the beat of the music, making sure you leave enough time for us to view the clip.

 

Arison Vilela :: Demo Reel

Saw this today and had to post for future reference. Overall, great presentation, use of type and design, highlighted by a great model of a crotch rocket/ mantis robot. Very nice. Keep us posted as to how you are doing Arison. 

Matthew Bessudo : Animation Demo Reel

Matthew is an animator from one of my favorite animations "Sigg Jones" by Supinfocom. His demo reel shows a variety of style, good typographic design and layout. Thanks for posting Mr. Bessudo.

Dstrukt : Visual FX Demo Reels

Came across two visual effects reels from Dstrukt. The reels exemplify good design, timing and creativity. I thought I'd put them on here for future reference. Don't mind the image of the creepy looking kid.