Transformers - how to ?

[Adam H. Stewart]

I am involved in a pitch for Paramount, that is going to use the Transformers concept. There are number of different questions wrapped up here:

1. Does anybody know what software the latest movie was done in ? - I'm thinking XSI, there is a slim chance we might get a model or two.
2. Working in Max is there any secret technique for hiding geometery if is rigged to transform. I am thinking of that great Hewlett package add that was out a couple of years about where a room unfolds around a cel phone.
3. I was thinking of using mocap files to get the movements for the transformers, using perhaps CAT for rigging (haven't used it for awhile,it was buggy as all hell - hopefully the latest version is more stable), if anybody experience buying mocap files, or doing mocap themselves I would very much appreciate their imput.

Thanks as always for your patience and help.

[Da_elf]

there was also a digital domain commercial where a jet place turns into a....saab i think it was

[vance3d]

yeah Digital Domain had some videos that showed the wireframe animation transforming. When ever I've had to do that kind of thing, it always ends up involving some scaling of objects down to 0 to hide, and telescoping of other pieces so body panels and such can be stacked together. there is always a lot of slight of hand that goes on because you're usually changing total volume from one object to another by a large degree

For a real transformer type example you should just get yourself some of those toys and see how they're rigged up and fit together. you can't get any more real world then that. and then embelish on top of that construction.

V Miller

[joconnell]

Absolutely - lots of hollow bits and basic shapes on the hull and all the detailed goodness in the middle. Just remember to freeze your transforms before you animate or it'll be gimble-lock-tastic! Not sure if you need any mocap files at all but the helicopter in the transformers trailer transforms into a standing position then walks off - maybe you could take a mocap walk cycle and animate from your shape into the first frame of the walk cycle?

[joconnell]

Also here's an idea how its done - http://www.liquidgeneration.com/Medi...rmers_Costume/

[studioDIM]

ROFL!
What a tool.

Lele

[RErender]

Heh, I think he posted it as a joke, no need to be so hard on him Lele,

[studioDIM]

Of course i meant the poor costumed bloke.
Or did i?

Lele

[ene.xis]

nice one!

[joconnell]

I was drunk and needed the money...

[Adam H. Stewart]

Fucking Awesome

I love it - we are pitching for what they call the " a Sizzle Reel" It is a bunch fo salesmen in Vegas who want to see something pretty glitzy ( think opening of the Oscars) about how great the studio are doing so they can get Buzzed and go out and sell more - USA ! USA ! USA ! Imagine how great it would be to show them this, with a melodramatic soundtrack

I'd get fired and probably shot - but it would be worth it.

Thanks all for your advice, hints and for the sad bastard in the transformer costume - do you think his mum knows what he is up to ?

[mikeeee2]

I almost peed a little I was laughing so hard. Thanks I needed this.

[geoff]

solved all your transformer problems mate

http://smpenterprisesllc.com/flash/bin/1999/home.html

[jacksc02]

nice link Geoff.
While your there Geoff, your DNA stair image turned up in out local newspaper... it was good to see but there were no credits to you

[geoff]

jacksc02
nice link Geoff.
While your there Geoff, your DNA stair image turned up in out local newspaper... it was good to see but there were no credits to you

got a copy of it?
Scan it in mate and lets have a look.
Did they like it?

Geoff