Personality and Character in Animation

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNaSroGJPVc&feature=related

I've been working on a 3D animation test involving and old man walking with a cane who reacts to an approaching figure. At the blocking stage I was relatively satisfied with the movements that I had, but I knew I was lacking all the personality and character that makes the figure on screen real. In other words I had motion, not emotion.

So I posted it up on The Acme Network and recieved feedback from two professionals (I'll keep them anonymous, but they are fantastic animators). One of the pros recommended I check out the lawyer character, George Hautecourt, from The Aristocats. Now I haven't gotten around to watching the whole movie, but I found this utterly amazing and mind-blowing scene that shows true character animation at its finest. I could instantly see what I was missing. I'm still trying to wrap my head around it (for instance, how did they reconcile his quick movements with his shaky movements and still keep it believable and convincing???!!!). I'd like to know who animated this character, but I have suspicions that it might be the great Milt Kahl himself, but if anyone knows for sure please let me know!

I don't know the legality of this clip, so it may not be up forever, but if you get the chance or have the movie itself, watch this scene! I promise you won't be disappointed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNaSroGJPVc&feature=related

With Respect

A concept piece for a short film idea. The short would be mostly dialogue-based with a fitting end.

Pascual

Pascual is a tough little guy with a big heart. He's also French-Canadian and plays hockey, which is somewhat redundant. Every Saturday morning he's the first guy out on the ice ready to play the game he loves. What he lacks in skill and coordination he makes up for in moxie. He's always willing to give his team a piece of his heart and the other team a piece of his mind. Play on, Pascual, play on.