Rabbit Habbits

Rabbit Habbits by Parker Bryant. Parker is a recent Graduate of Sheridan BAA Animation Program, Rabbit Habbits is his thesis film which he discusses below…

Who?

I created everything from pre-production concept design and storyboards to post-production animation, backgrounds and compositing. Music was done by Mandy Woo, who’s University of Toronto music program collaborated with several of my animation peers on the creation of their animated films. Another huge credit goes to my 4th year studio friends who gave me advice and endless inspiration.

What?

The story is set in Hillbilly country with a classic Hillbilly taking it easy, sitting in his rocker and enjoying his moonshine. When he spots a rabbit eating his vegetables, a series of events transpires. The end result being a testament of the Hillbilly’s ingenuity!

Why?

I always knew i wanted something old and rustic because I feel a connection with that kind of world and Its what I love to paint. I decided on a Hillbilly character when I found a book called ‘Fox Fire’ in a bookstore which is a thorough look into the lifestyle of a Hillbilly: teaching how to hunt, build log cabins, make traditional recipes and creating moonshine. I was inspired by a lot in terms of actual look of the film. Inspiration came from a lot of places but i few notable ones faucets of inspiration came from Adventure Time (a show i love so much), the movie Bambi, and Milt Kahl animation.

How?

I storyboarded traditionally at first and then digitally.
I did all my backgrounds with very simple line drawings and put the detail in with digital painting in Photoshop.
All of my animation was drawn and coloured in DigiCel Flipbook
Compositing was done in Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro
I used a Cintiq and a Wacom Bamboo FUN Tablet

Next Project?

I’m considering making another short film soon. As for now I’m just staying inspired and sketching a ton.

Which animated film would you like to have made?

I love everything about the short film ‘Old Fangs’ by Adrien Merigeau. The storytelling, the tension and eerie feeling backed up by the vivid colors and bold design are something to aspire too. I could list so many more but that one stuck with me throughout the year.