We spoke to the Mikros Animation teams in Bangalore who contributed to the fabrication of DRAGONS : THE NINE REALMS. In this #MeetTheMakers interview, Vinotha Sivakumar – Animation Artist, gives us her point of view on this unique project and on the challenges she faced.
Can you tell us about your journey in the animation industry?
My journey in the animation industry began after I finished school. I completed a BSc in Visual Communication and PG Diploma in Animation in Chennai. I started my career as an animator in a studio in Chennai in 2018 and worked on some international projects prior to joining Mikros Animation in 2021. I think my drive for this industry comes from my passion towards art and cartoons.
The ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ franchise is well-known but with Dragons: The Nine Realms, we see a modern-day setting with dragons. What was your reaction when you learnt you’ll collaborate on this sequel?
My absolute favorite movie is ‘How to Train Your Dragon’. I was quite sad when I finished watching ‘How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World’. Prior to joining Mikros Animation, I didn’t know that the stories of dragons would continue in a TV series. I was overjoyed when I found out I’d be working on the franchise! I’m so happy to be working as animator on a sequel of my favorite movie.
What is unique about this show?
I think the plot is unique since the series shows how the dragons react to the high-tech world. That’s pretty cool! Animation brings many imaginary things to life and extends the scope of what we see as possible in reality.
What were the main artistic and/or technical challenges you had to overcome in your department?
As an artist, this is my first time animating a four-legged character. I learned many things about how to convey the emotions in an animal’s face. I struggled for a while to perfect the animation style for the series, but it’s been interesting.
Do you have a favourite sequence?
There are many sequences that I love but there are two that are my favourites. One is the sequence where Thunder tastes various packaged food items and the other is where Feathers follows Alex while invisible because she wants to team up with her. There are lots more, but all my favourites have the dragons and human characters combining to create scenes that make the show fun and funny.
What are you looking forward to now that two seasons are out in the world?
Now that two seasons are out, I have seen that the series attracted many audiences of different ages. I am eagerly waiting for the next episodes. I think it has a good impact on the audience and I want to see their reaction to the animation quality and the story.
More information on the series here!
