The Taking: A Film Teaser Design

Role:

Story, Art Direction,
Motion Design, Animation

Core Concept

This visual journey highlights constructed myths and cultural conflicts, encouraging discussions about the American West's interconnected elements. The design is inspired by the iconic Western movies of John Wayne, which depict a seemingly ideal and adventurous heroic life. It incorporates film set props intermingled with hidden Indigenous symbols, such as carpets and instruments, to reveal underlying signs of cultural conflict. Using dramatic lighting and cinematic composition, the design aims to create an unsettling atmosphere that evokes curiosity in the target audience.

This visual journey highlights constructed myths and cultural conflicts, encouraging discussions about the American West's interconnected elements. The design is inspired by the iconic Western movies of John Wayne, which depict a seemingly ideal and adventurous heroic life. It incorporates film set props intermingled with hidden Indigenous symbols, such as carpets and instruments, to reveal underlying signs of cultural conflict. Using dramatic lighting and cinematic composition, the design aims to create an unsettling atmosphere that evokes curiosity in the target audience.

Process

This project began with visual explorations, crafting styleframes and 3D designs around a simple circle motif, rendered with Redshift for depth and texture. Early on, I focused on bold visual expressions, but the real lesson emerged mid-process: "less is more." Composition and art direction drove the narrative, yet flexibility was key, iterating as the piece evolved taught me that even the cleanest concepts adapt to stay compelling.

Key Takeaway

Technical experimentation: Experimenting with Redshift helps create foggy, mysterious scenes in the RS environment. Blending these basic renders with Photoshop techniques brings everything together.

Camera and Lighting: The right camera angles and lighting are crucial for styleframes, making each scene feel real and unified.

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Drop me a line for any inquiries or collabs!

© 2025 Hayley An

Drop me a line for any inquiries or collabs!

© 2025 Hayley An

Drop me a line for any inquiries or collabs!

© 2025 Hayley An