GLASS PASSAGES
ABOUT GLASS PASSAGES
Glass Passages is a short film showcasing the power of 3D virtual environment design, created and rendered within Unreal Engine. The protagonist is a 3D-scanned version of myself that I created using LiDAR scanning and Metahuman technology.
The character travels on a train with a glass ceiling, exploring five unique virtual environments representing milestones in my journey as an artist along my college career. It is a personal reflection of my South African identity and my journey as an international student.
Through the the beauty of real-time visuals and advanced 3D technology, the film portrays my journey coming to the US, my development as an artist, and the excitement of what is to come.
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FOLLOW ALONG ON MY JOURNEY
PART 1: AFRICAN SAVANA
I grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa. The country, beauty, and culture has become an intrinsic part of my identity. I developed a fascination for environments, animals, and creatures that inspire my artwork. My background and upbringing is a large part of the artist I am today, and so it is a suitable place to start the journey into this story world.
PART 2: CYBERPUNK CITY
I faced the challenge of leaving home at eighteen years old, and moved to London to start my first year of college. This was exciting, but overwhelming, being alone in a new country. I then moved to Boston to continue my studies. While it was difficult to uproot twice, I was also immersed into beautiful cultures and new perspectives.
This scene captures beauty amidst chaos and uncertainty.
PART 3: ABANDONED TRAIN STATION
I faced many struggles being an international student coming to the US amidst the pandemic. It was scary arriving in a new city that I had never visited before, with my family being all the way in South Africa. However, it is part of my journey because it made me stronger, and I found peace in my art and continuously learning.
I wanted this scene to capture how isolation and fear can leave space for new opportunities and beauty to grow.
PART 4: SPACE
I started an internship that changed my perspective on the industry and my career. I had a wonderful experience working at Universal Pictures and was introduced to the virtual production world. I was able to work on projects bigger than what I could create on my own. I also realized that in a universe full of talent, my perspective and ideas mattered, and I learned so much along the way.
This scene, in its dreamlike and ethereal nature, captures my perspective in a world of possibilities.
PART 5: COMMENCEMENT
I am looking forward to so much opportunity and possibility, entering an exciting industry and taking my experiences with me. Our glass train finally stops at Northeastern University.
This scene captures bittersweet endings, nostalgia, gratitude, and new beginnings.
REEL BREAKDOWN: HOW THE SHOTS WERE MADE
SOFTWARE USED:
