Staging

Continuing research in order decide what I want to do for my honours project, I asked myself what other important stages of pre-production are necessary if and when developing a 3D environment?
I have already covered mood in a previous blog update and would now like to focus on staging. If I choose to make an interactive environment in a location that has more than one character, studying character performance will be a necessary step.

Staging is the art of presenting an idea that it is clear to the audience, which could vary from personality, to body actions, to mood and other elements of character performance. Removing the element of staging from the production process of the concept will result in confusion and total lack of realism. Here are some key examples from Disney that have been highlighted to indicate the factors that contribute to the staging of the characters, accompanied by an elaboration of each staging example.

Pinocchio (1940); Stromboli is enraged by Pinocchio's antics but pauses when he realises the crowd enjoys the comedic performance they are both accidentally presenting.

Clenching Pinocchio tightly by the scruff of the neck, showing anger in his actions. The belly thrust upwards to symbolise authority. Secondary action with the left arm to highlight his enragement.

The Sword and The Stone (1963); Madame Mim provoking Merlin to the point of a wizards duel by antagonising and slapping him.

Madame Mim leaning forward, curving the spine, displaying authority and confidence in her actions. Merlin visualises surprise, as well as disgust towards Madame Mim's actions by thrusting out his chest, pursing up his face and dropping his eyebrows.

The Rescuers (1977); Madame Medusa trying to show her kidnapee, Penny, that she cares for her dearly in order to win her trust, so she can get what she desires. This is reinforced with a pursed kissing face and a condescending tone.

Medusa leans forward for an attempted sign of affection, mouth pursed for a motherly-like kiss and hands held together to try and symbolise innocence in her intended actions. Penny holds her teddy bear closer, showing fear and concern for Medusa's intended actions, as well as the sudden swivelling of the head to highlight her surprise/shock.

Robin Hood (1973); Robin Hood wooing the sweet Maid Marian whilst fending off the henchmen of Prince John, using charm, wit and romantic gestures to symbolise his affection for the love of his life.

Maid Marian with one hand on her chest/heart and head tilted to the side (eyes closed) to show flattery for Robin's romantic suggestions, with the other hand holding his harmonising the element of love between the two characters. Robin standing in a dominant/heroic pose, the spine slightly curved to highlight his bold characteristics, brow lowered, eyes open, holding her hand and head directly in alignment with Maid Marian's, Robin well and truly shows sincerity in his actions and intentions for his one true love.