The Magic Number
I used 80's animation techniques to get an authentic retro look in this throwback music video for hip-hop legends De La Soul.
2023
When I was briefed on the animations for De La Soul's The Magic Number, the ask was to make it feel authentically like 1989. For this, I delved into research on the most traditional animation process: Ink and paint on cels.
A technique popularised by Walt Disney Studios during its golden era of animated filmmaking, 'Cel' animation refers to the cellulose sheets artists would paint on and layer in front of a camera to compose their shots.
I also did stylistic research to emulated a style from days gone by. The handmade DIY aesthetic of a hip-hop group in their early years came through in my choice of medium. And the blocky shapes of the hands was inspired by clips of street art featured in one of their original videos from the era.
Credits
Director & Video Editor
J Anders Urmacher
Animation, animation technique research and development, Animation direction
Pip Williamson
