THUNDER KITTEN

“Thunder Kitten” is a 2D animated short created by Paloma Sawko. The short focuses on a curious, blue-eyed kitten, who finds infatuation with the raindrops racing down the window of his home, the only problem is that his greatest fear is the sound of thunder and the flashing claps of lightning that can be heard outside. The gag of the short stems from the kitten finding some peace after realising he is safe, only to be struck by a leaf, fallen from the flowerpot behind which he sought shelter. 

This work consists of 2D character animation over photographic stills. The realistic rain and lighting effects knit the animated and photographic elements together to create a seamless bridge between art and reality. The inspiration behind this project happens to be the weary, easily spooked and silly Yorkshire terriers that I have at home. These pieces aimed to express their personalities and attitudes through fluid and exaggerated animal animation. While giving myself an opportunity to animate some of my favourite creatures, my greatest task was to test my VFX and compositing abilities using light, shadows, water, fire, smoke effects and matte painting. 

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