With a larger episode count and new technical demands, this production presented fresh creative and logistical challenges. Filming on-location introduced dynamic backdrops but also unpredictable elements—from shifting light conditions to unexpected interruptions. One of the most unusual surprises came when filming at Murlough Beach and the surrounding woodlands, where we suddenly found ourselves contending with live military training drills from a nearby base. The sound of firearms echoed unpredictably, making it nearly impossible to record. With no prior warning or scheduling insight, we had no choice but to strategically time our shots between bursts of gunfire, adjusting on the fly to capture the footage we needed.
Client:
BBC
My Role:
Series prodcution and direction
Year:
2019
Service Provided:
Script writing, storyboard, filming, editing
Once filming wrapped, the focus shifted to post-production, where another set of challenges emerged. Compositing visual effects for puppets required a new level of precision, particularly in tracking and animating eyelid movements frame-by-frame. This painstaking process added subtle layers of expression to the characters, making their interactions feel more natural and emotive.
We also introduced playful visual tricks, such as animating Dec’s blinking eyes inside the lenses of felt binoculars for comedic effect. These refinements, while time-consuming, helped bring an extra layer of personality to the puppets—enhancing the storytelling without disrupting the handmade charm of the production.
