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Be a Jedi Designer |  |
February 8, 2007
By Gabby Hyman
Design Programs Columnist
Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) was created by George Lucas in 1975 as the post-production planet for the film industry universe. Since then, would-be animators and designers have strived for Jedi status among the animation elite. With the completion of the Star Wars story and the headquarters' move to the prestigious Presidio area in San Francisco, ILM faces an avalanche of resumes and job applications.
If you're looking for a job at the ILM headquarters, it's a good idea to peruse the openings posted on its website. But before you put a reel in the mail, it's also fundamental to know what the Jedi design masters are looking for. A degree in computer animation is the place to start in this exciting industry.
May the Force--and More--Be With You
According to an ILM-produced video titled "What ILM Would Like to See on a Reel," knowledge of software is NOT the key to being a successful animator. Even if you use "force" to move an animated character, ILM wants to see force combined with resistance, gravity, a path of action, and how the character reacts as a personality.
Since ILM is involved in the complete post-production process, they want your reel to include demonstrable expertise in modeling.
Show development of your artwork, from simple wire frames all the way up to final renderings. If you can integrate your work with live action as well as computer generated graphics, so much the better. ILM masters want to see your range and, especially, the twinkle in your mind's eye. If you have created a unique or interesting effect that departs from the norm, do not be afraid to show it in your reel.
Once you have some training and experience in computer animation or visual communication, then outer space is the limit for your career!
About the Author
Gabby Hyman has written for print and online media for more than 20 years. He holds an MFA in fiction writing from the University of Alabama.
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