Making Of: Starfield

It's now time to overview the creation of episode 2 of Midwest Angelica, "Starfield". This entry will dive into the behind-the-scenes of the episode alongside some background on how the VFX was done. If you don't want the magic ruined, don't read! Next entry will cover some influences, inspiration, and trivia.

Firstly, let's talk about some of the Starkill 3D models. This episode had some of the earliest renditions of the Starkill, and as you can see, they look like old video game models. We weren't quite sure how to accurately create the Starkill at this time; however, you wouldn't see the finer details amidst the VHS distortion. So it worked out. We used Blender to create these objects. First, we would import an isosphere with 9 or so subdivisions. Then, we would basically just use the sculpt tool to distort it into a weird grotesque mess. The fabric wrap tool was also useful in adding texture to the object. 

The shot of Avery getting 'assimilated' required some rotoscoping. Basically, we had to go in and mask out the character each frame to make sure the tendrils could be composited underneath. The same technique was used with the small Starkill lifeform running under the fence! 

The sunrise shot was done the same was as many other handheld motion shots: using camera track data. The camera motion is calculated using After Effects and the image is composited with camera motion to give the motion authenticity. The final image of the farm required a particle simulation to create the image of the Starkill spores floating around. 

There was one instance of a practical effect used in this episode! We had a prop that we used to show the Starkill rising outside the window. The lighting underneath really sold it! Maybe we'll incorporate more practical effects into the series later, especially considering a lot of the aesthetic of this series is based on horror and sci-fi practical effects from the 80s. We do try to recreate that aesthetic digitally as best as we can. 

That's all for this entry. Next time, we'll cover some trivia and inspiration for episode 2 of Midwest Angelica.