Czech Republic 2016-2020The Adventurers
The Story
This project was inspired by stories about brave explores from early 1900s. At that times there were still many blank spots on the maps, just waiting for adventurous spirits to set out and explore. I created character of doctor Vrba and his small group of friends who try to explore deepest parts of wild and uncharted Sumava forest. Part of the story is told by dr. Vrba’s diaries, but his notes end just before the group meets mysterious forest creature.
All my projects start with research. I look for reference pictures for mood I want to create, put together moodboards, storyboards and do extensive research on clothing and props that my heroes would wear. Once I’m ready with pre-production, I usually continue with location scouting and talent scouting. Main challenge on this project was constructing the forest god himself. Although it would be probably possible to create him in either 3D software or using compositing techniques, we went for practical effects. Practical effects always look better (and more real) and it’s also much more rewarding process for me.
It took us three days to build the creature. We used wire construction, covered with branches and finally small detailing with plants and moss. At the end the creature really came almost alive and it lives in the forest ever since.
The Process
I always start by looking for reference pictures for mood I want to create.
It’s always useful to have as precise idea of props or locations we’re looking for, it helps me to communicate with other artists.
Reference pictures from my research on costume design.
First day of building process VS final version in the day of shooting.
Talents in proper costumes.
Moments before shoot, waiting for assistant to create thick fog.
Behind The Scenes Video
The Forest God
19th century coming to an end, the world is filled with endless possibilities. Discoveries in the field of science and technology go hand in hand with the rise of humanism. Adventurers grow restless, taunted by the last remaining blank spots of their maps. Countless groups venture into places no human has ever set foot in before. When they return home, they bring stories of fantastic new lands, strange beasts and even stranger folks. In September of 1892 prof. Vrba abruptly resigns as the secretary of the Royal Bohemian Fellowship of Science and assembles an expedition into Bohemia’s last uncharted territory: Sumava.
This group of fearless and wanderlust explorers finally sets off in spring of 1893. First reports tell of resounding success: they discovered and catalogued many new species. As time goes by however, telegrams become much scarcer and their optimism fades away. The expedition is held back by the dark woods full of dangerous predators and paths need to be carved through ever thicker growth. The last message from prof. Vrba mentions a local legend of a mysterious and deadly creature that lives in the very heart of the wildland and protects it from intruders. The esteemed scientist dismisses the story as an old wife’s tale and presses on his journey. It is here, that all communication from the expedition stops.
A rescue party sent the following year by the newly formed Academy of Sciences returns empty handed. To this day, the fate of prof. Vrba and his companions remains unknown.
