richard williams & walks
Posted by dermot on March 30, 2009 at 11:34 am
I got into animation in 1988 - fortunately, Don Bluth had recently set up his animation studio in Dublin around 1986; otherwise there would have been no way to enter the profession. One of the major inspirations at the time was “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” (1988).
The animation director for that film was Richard Williams, who you probably know, is something of a legend. This documentary aired around the time, and was one of the factors that lured me into this dubious career.
Dick’s book “The animators survival kit” is a must-have. While the book is flawed (not enough about acting for example), you’ll have all the walk cycle inspiration needed for a lifetime. Clearly, Dick is a bit OCD about walks - as you’ll see in the above clip. Here’s the amazing animation created for the cover of his book:
And a short clip from his masterclass on walk cycles:
4 Responses to “richard williams & walks”
The first book I read while learning animation recommended I read this one next. I’ll let you know which one was more helpful when I’m a better animator, but I’m leaning toward Richard Williams’s, as the first book was only a one page advertisement for it.
Sex Mahoney for President
Two more to get: the new collection of lectures on gesture drawing by Disney artist Walt Stanchfield. DRAWN TO LIFE, volumes 1 and 2, will probably become the most important animation books published this year.
great place to learn…thsnks to alll of you :)
I loved watching these vids. However, the long interview with Richard Williams is slightly disheartening. He seems to have given his entire life to animation, but has very little to show for it in terms of material weath. Am I doomed to live a poor, miserable existence by choosing animation as my career? ;_;
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