The Be Animated group in Sittingbourne have been developing their creative skills while working on their upcoming animation series, "Portal". Film plot is based on a mysterious app that appears on the characters' phones — once opened, it launches a portal that leads to unexpected adventure, chaos, and some laugh-out-loud moments!

From film to a whole series

Originally planned as one short film, project members have now decided to create Portal as a series with episodes. This means each project member can develop their own storyline and imagine a personal adventure through the portal. “It was a brilliant idea, which I came up with. It's inspired by a whole load of different ideas,” said Liam. “It's going to be amazing,” added Stewart, with Gez sharing, “It's going to be a wonderful film – and inspiring.”

Building digital skills

Throughout the project, the group have been building a wide range of animation, storytelling and production skills. They have used Adobe Photoshop software to design storyboards and plan out their plots. They have used both scripted parts and improvised parts to keep the project open and accessible for everyone involved. Each member has created a digital version of themselves, and experimented with surrealist animation – transforming into characters with animal heads or bodies to bring a playful and imaginative twist to their scenes.

In recent sessions, the group have been focused on perfecting the look of the portal itself, whilst also producing a custom soundtrack using Bandlab, an online audio workstation. To improve the mood of the animation, they’ve added effects in Audacity. Using the effects has created a unique soundscape that shows the mystery and creativity of their storyline.

Once everyone is happy with the visuals and music, filming can begin in the summer.

 

Take a look at Portal work so far!

 

We can’t wait to see the adventures that await through the portal!