Computer Animation, Bollywood Style
India and the Future of Computer Animation
Although it's doubtful that the $5 million Magik will be able to compete with the $100 million animated features that come out from Hollywood, Media Factory India's move into animation highlights a new trend in Bollywood. Western successes like Shrek, Toy Story, and The Incredibles have helped create more demand for feature-length animated shorts in India, one of the largest markets for filmmaking and film viewing. However, computer animation in India is still very much in its infancy. Before average moviegoers in other parts of the world begin taking note, Bollywood producers will have to rely both on native talent and an influx of new ideas, new animators, and new techniques from abroad. This means that whatever current demand there exists for animators worldwide will likely increase as India attempts to corner an even larger portion of the market.
What You Should Study in Computer Animation
As an aspiring animator, you should seriously consider adding Bollywood cinematography to your curriculum. Just as producers and animators in India will have to adapt some Western concepts to their films, so too might you have to incorporate various Indian constructs into your work. The incorporation of Indian-influenced songs and dance, colors, motifs, religious symbology, character development, and storylines could do wonders for your professional career after you graduate. Such versatility and fluency could make you a valuable asset both in the US and in countries like India.
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