The challenge on this project was to create an F1 car travelling at speed into a 3-dimensional time portal!  Working from the outset with Stone Dogs (VFX)  and Snap, (agency), we quickly dialled into the director’s vision for the CG sequences.  The photo-realistic modelling of the car, which we developed from a static image, was an essential component in selling the broader concept for the film, requiring us to make it appear to be travelling at 200mph.

We began by taking a CAD model of the car, which we stripped to its core components, and, in order for the shots to appear realistic, we then textured, before rendering using Redshift and ACES colour. We also modelled a custom helmet, which Daniel Riccardo wore on the shoot.

The next stage was to start building the basic environment, as well as pre-visualising each shot length, and camera angles, which helped focus the director’s vision for the film, as well as allowing him to time the sequences.

We then started render, lighting and particles tests, as well as developing the look and feel of the portal.  Another essential stage of the project was to add particles, and light sweeps, to the speed and movement of the F1 car to be composited into the live-action shots, which was crucial to selling the story, as in reality, the vehicle was completely static. These added elements completely changed the narrative and provided the sense of speed.

This was the first project we incorporated Megascans tremendous 8k assets, which are a game-changer, enabling a level of finish and realism which was not previously achievable.

The final renders and comps were terrific, and the entire team was happy with the quality of the renders we achieved. This was both an artistic and technical achievement on the limited schedule we had.

Software: Cinema 4D, Maya, Redshift and After Effects.

CREATIVE AGENCY: SNAP LDN
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Matt Hynds
AGENCY PRODUCER: Vanessa Butcher
MANAGING PARTNER: Louisa Fielding
ACCOUNT DIRECTOR: Vicki Thorniley
ACCOUNT MANAGER: Melissa Adamou
FILM PRODUCTION: Blink
DIRECTOR: Jak Payne
PRODUCER: Richard Wilson
EXEC PRODUCER: Paul Weston
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Harry Wheeler
EDITOR: Charlie Von Rotberg @ STITCH Editing
POST PRODUCTION: StoneDogs
CG SEQUENCES: Orchard Post
CG PRODUCER: Martin Cook
LEAD CG ARTIST: Russell Appleford
CG ARTISTS: Luke Barker, Martin Cook
SOUND DESIGN: Ben Leeves @ Jungle
MUSIC COMPOSITION: Major Tom