Media: Introduction Video
Click here to view the ProjectArcix Introductory Video
The introductory video on the homepage of ProjectArcix is a visual collage of some of the most devastating contemporary disasters. The selection of the four disasters used in the video was a highly engaging task as we believe that all disasters have devastating effects. However, in the interest of maintaining the audience's interest and technical constraints, we chose the four disaster. These four disasters occured in four regions of the world, representing the span of natural and synthetic disasters. Additionally, the disasters all occured in the last few years to remind us that disasters are not things of the past. Furthermore, the use of recent disasters allow even our younger audiences to feel the impact of global disasters. Here are the the individual reasons for each disaster that we have chosen for the video:
Tsunami
The Indian Ocean Tsunami has been one of the most devastating natural disasters. Globally, countries and citizens came together to aid the South and South East Asian countries struck by the waves. Although much more needs to be done, it reminds us that it is possible for us to deal with disasters as a civilization.
September 11th Terrorist Attacks
The terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center was the most destructive terrorist attack on U.S. soil. However, its implications extend far beyond the United States borders. That fateful day has shaped the current international political climate so much that it cannot be ignored. New coalitions were formed, new enemies too. This event emphasizes the far-reaching implications disasters can have beyond their immediate tolls.
Genocide in Darfur
History repeats itself. The international community has again allowed an egregious violation of basic human rights to continue under its eyes. This segment of our video reminds governments and citizens that unspeakable atrocities are happening as we speak - it is a call for a proactive response to heinous crimes.
The SARS Outbreak
Causing global panic, the SARS outbreak seemed to show that diseases are unpredictable. In light of the current climate of fear of a potential avian flu outbreak, a review of another modern case of pandemics is important.
The Video Creation Process
The process of creating the video required hours of planning and precise execution to meet both time constraints and to be flawless in appearance and performance. Using Wieland's tips and advice as a 3D animator, the group learned various techniques that we're helpful in the creation of the video. The first task was to create a sketch or draft of exactly what the video will be. After a few group discussions, we arrived at the following two sketches:
Upon further discussion, we decided that to create a sense of realism in the video, it would be necessary to introduce a more realistic color pallete. For this purpose, we scrapped the first preliminary sketches, and began working on a concept that would accurately portray the realism of disasters. The new concept can be seen here:
Technical Aspects
The video was created using 3D Studio Max modeling software and Adobe Premiere video editing software. Here are a few screenshots of the working environment of the video:
