Holes Title Sequence
Instructor: Alex K Kim
Year: Fall 2023
Movie Title Sequence, Animation
Holes by Louis Sachar, many was introduced to many as part of the reading curriculum in elementary to middle schools in the early 2000s. With a movie adaptation by Disney following suit, this story holds a special place for people of that generation. And I am no different. With its unique storytelling, engaging mystery, and shocking twist, this animated title sequence conveys the novel’s key themes and imagery. The animation features iconic visuals drawn from the book, such as the yellow-spotted lizard, a shovel used by all the main characters, a bullet wizzing by a yellow-spotted lizard, and a wooden boat stranded in the middle of a desert with the very faded words Mary Lou written on the side. Setting up the background of what is to be Stanley Yelnats’ journey in Camp Green Lake.
Process
The animated title sequence was inspired by the opening credits of *The Good Lord Bird* created by Studio King and Country. My goal was to develop a similar textured hand-drawn animation that captured the Western theme of both stories while also reflecting the harsh and rugged terrain in which the narrative unfolds. I utilized both Procreate and Procreate Dreams to create the hand-drawn animations, and then refined the video using After Effects. I focused on key scenes from the book that carry symbolic significance or provide crucial context within the larger story. To maintain a bold and direct visual style, I opted for a limited color palette and simple silhouetted forms. Throughout the animation process, I adapted my workflow to accommodate new tools and formats as challenges arose, reinforcing the importance of flexibility in animation.