ASTERIX: THE SECRET OF THE MAGIC POTION

In 2018, Mikros Animation once again teamed up with the talented directors Alexandre Astier and Louis Clichy to bring to life a new chapter in the adventures of Asterix – The Secret of the Magic Potion. This project marked a new milestone for the studio, despite the continuity of the directorial duo, offering a different experience from their previous success, Asterix – The Mansions of the Gods, released in 2014.

Unlike the first film, “The Secret of the Magic Potion” was not an adaptation, freeing the directors and production teams from many constraints. However, this did not mean that the project was less demanding. The script, rich in travels and settings, posed a major challenge, testing the creativity and technical expertise of the Mikros Animation teams. Additionally, technical developments such as the adoption of the 2:35 format and a significant increase in the number of shots added further complexity to the production.

Louis Clichy, one of the directors, shared his artistic vision for the film, emphasizing the importance of story and imagery. An approach where artistic authenticity takes precedence over strict continuity, as evidenced by the deliberate change in the position of Asterix’s sword from one shot to another. This desire for creativity also extends to details such as light and shadows. Meticulous work on lighting, inspired by the portraits of the Harcourt photo studio and 1950s films, required adaptation of the engine used for production, Arnold, which was not initially designed for stylized rendering.

In the field of animation, Louis Clichy’s approach was clear: a return to a very 2D style, reminiscent of comic books. An iconic sequence was detailed and commented on, providing a fascinating insight into the creative process. The focus was on the sequence featuring a class of Gaulish children, with explanations of artistic choices, such as the tousled hair of young Pectine to avoid an aesthetic that is too “cute”.

Despite the technical challenges, the Mikros Animation team succeeded in creating a film that not only respects Asterix’s legacy but also innovates artistically. This collaboration once again demonstrated the studio’s ability to adapt to various projects and push the creative boundaries of animation. “Asterix – The Secret of the Magic Potion” remains a shining testament to the skill and dedication of the Mikros Animation teams in the world of cinematic animation.