The One That Got Away

Media: Cut paper stop motion

The rabbit detective still can’t get over his past lover, but life must go on. He takes on another case in a series of jewelry thefts that just don’t end. Every time he thinks he’s getting close, this thief is one step ahead. But maybe this time things will turn out differently.

The development of the story and its characters started as sketches. The basic premise that spurred the concept behind the story was the mixing of an adult noir story and bunny characters. The darker and more serious tone inherent to noir makes for an interesting context for the traditionally friendly animals. Love, loss, and a hopelessness where no one wins were areas of exploration within this story.

Given the one-minute time limit, telling an entire noir detective story proved difficult. Rather, focusing on a slice of a perhaps larger story was more realistic.

The detective and thief were created with movable limbs. The hinges were coiled wire which allowed for optimal movement, being strong enough to hold that position. For the parts that did not need to be as mobile, masking tape was used.

Almost 100 models were made in total. Often, multiple models were made of the same characters depending on the type of shot or the positioning of the character.

The first part of the stop motion is shot flat with the camera looking immediately down from higher up.

The second half is shot mostly in the upright position. Though paper is flat, dimension is able to be introduced by shooting upright. This much needed depth allows for more pleasing shots with depth of field and perspective.

The animation was done at ten frames per second.

Following the story board, the animation process was carried through with a plan. The music was also highly influential in the timing of movements and scene changes.