DIRECTING THE MAGIC OF ANIMATION

Hey there, fellow film enthusiasts!

Steve Long here. You might know me as the guy behind the curtains at the Global Film Exhibition. Today, I'm pulling back those curtains a tad to share a slice of my world: the enchanting realm of animation.

First off, let's clear a little myth. If you've got this image of me doodling characters all day, that's not quite it. Directing animations is not so much about drawing, but more about guiding a spirited team through a whirlwind of imagination. Picture it as navigating a ship through a storm where the rain is ideas and the lightning, is sudden flashes of inspiration.

Why am I drawn to animation, you ask? It's the magic, the sheer thrill of bringing to life dreams and worlds that, before us, existed only in imagination. It's like having a conversation with your younger self, the one who believed in talking animals and fairies.

Each day in this world is its own adventure. Sure, it starts with coffee (doesn’t everything?), but then it morphs into endless chats with the crew, discussions about the right shade for a character's shirt, or debates over whether a joke is funny enough. And yes, we do laugh at our own jokes; someone has to!

The path isn’t always smooth. There are days, I’ll admit when I want to tear my hair out because a scene isn’t just “feeling” right. But then there are times when a character’s expression, a simple line, or a background score brings tears to my eyes. It’s in those moments that I remember why I do what I do.

If you’re ever thinking of stepping into this vibrant universe, here's a little heart-to-heart from me: Keep that spark alive. The world of animation thrives on your unique voice. Embrace mistakes, cherish those little victories, and let that inner child guide you.

Animation isn’t just what I do; it’s a piece of my soul. Every frame, every character, carries a piece of my heart. And as you sit back and watch those dreams play out on screen, I hope you feel a bit of the magic too.

Until our paths cross again, keep dreaming big and feeling deeper.

Warmly, Steve Long