One style of animation that was rare even back when handdrawn animation was the normal method was that of rotoscoping, often associated with the works of Ralph Bakshi (Wizards, 1978's The Lord of the Rings, Fire and Ice). The idea is to hand-drawn animation over live-action images which help create a more fluid motion in the animation itself. And now, premiering at next week’s virtual SXSW Film Festival, The Spine of Night is being billed as inspired by both Bakshi and Frank Franzetta. The trailer released today certainly implies it's faithful to this style.
The story is set in a fantasy land where a mystical plant has left the planet in ruins all while the man who uncovered its power lords over this broken world. Teased as ultra-violent, another interesting mention in a preview for the film is the heroes of the story are from different eras and cultures to fight back. This leaves an audience with a curiosity to what exactly is happening in the tale and the trailer sure doesn't clear it up, but it does leave you intrigued. Check it out below:
The Spine of Night features the voices of Richard E. Grant, Lucy Lawless, Patton Oswalt, Betty Gabriel, Joe Manganiello, Abby Savage, Larry Fessenden, and Rob McClure. It is co-written and co-directed by Philip Gelatt and Morgan Galen King.