An 87-second 3D animation short film called Go Green is all set to create awareness about tree conservation. Set in India 2030, the movie is the story of a young boy who lives in an age in which trees no longer exist, and follows him as he discovers the importance of trees and the reason behind their extinction.
The film has been produced by the Center for Computer Graphics & Virtual Reality (CGVR) of MS Ramaiah School of Advanced Studies (MSRSAS), Bangalore.
Deforestation blues “We came up with this idea after seeing the deforestation happening around us. We decided to use the 3D animation medium because it gives us flexibility in conveying our message,” says B S Abhilash, film director and senior design consultant, CGVR.
The idea came about as part of the coursework at MSRSAS, where students were asked to work on ideas around the green theme. Abhilash and his other team members including M Lakshmi Narayana, M Mahesh, K Hari Prasad Reddy and Y Shravya then added to the storyline.
The group spent approximately 1,400 hours on the film. First, a literature survey was conducted to understand the economic and ecological importance of trees, and to gather general information about them.
They also researched the best tree type to grow and concluded that a bonsai tree would fit the bill as it required minimal water and sunlight. A script, storyboard, and live-action videos were then created to finalise and go with the storyline.
Screening in NGOs Abhilash says, “The film needed to look realistic. Since India 2030 had no trees, there would be no oxygen. How would people breathe? That’s when we incorporated air conditioners and cylinders that run on oxygen to ensure authenticity.”
{{/usCountry}}Screening in NGOs Abhilash says, “The film needed to look realistic. Since India 2030 had no trees, there would be no oxygen. How would people breathe? That’s when we incorporated air conditioners and cylinders that run on oxygen to ensure authenticity.”
{{/usCountry}}The group has approached Green Peace to help promote the video and will also provide the film to NGOs and schools for free. The film has also been uploaded on YouTube to ensure that it reaches a wider audience.
Meanwhile, the makers have already started conceptualising a sequel. Says Abhilash, “Our next story will feature half-cut trees that gang up and fight humanity for driving them to extinction. In the end, they ask humans to pay them for providing them with oxygen.”