British roboticist and film-maker John Nolan’s animatronic creations are disturbing, grotesque and amazingly wonderful, especially in partial undress. Nolan’s work includes films like, Hellboy, Where the Wild Things Are, Doctor Who and Harry Potter.
Animatronics uses computer technology, mechanical devices, robotics, and radio control to animate puppets or other models in order to create special effects for film or animated and interactive displays.
While films are using more and more CGI and stop motion animation, robotic FX artists bring unique skills to cinematic projects.
Exposed Animatronics
The Grotesque and Amazing Robotics of Filmmaker John Nolan
Trend Themes
1. Revival of Animatronics - The use and development of animatronics in film is a surprising innovation opportunity amid an era when CGI is taking over the entertainment industry.
2. Integration of Robotics in Film Production - Filmmakers can explore the integration of robotics in movie production, a trend which has plenty of potential for technological innovation and increased creative control.
3. Adoption of Puppets for Special Effects - The use of puppets or other models in film-making is an emerging trend in special effects, which promises to deliver unexpected improvements in surrealism, entertainment, and viewer engagement.
Industry Implications
1. Film and Entertainment - The growing trend of robotics and animatronics in film production offers massive technological growth opportunities in the Entertainment industry.
2. Theme Parks and Attractions - Mechanics and animatronics techniques used in film-making can also be adopted and integrated into creating interactive and immersive displays within theme parks and other important tourist attractions.
3. Realistic Robotics for Disease Therapy - The realism in the design of robotics and animatronics could find its way into the creation of realistic body companions for human therapy and comfort in the Healthcare sector.