VFX Reference Puppet Makers
2022 fantasy film directed by David Yates from a screenplay by J. K. Rowling and Steve Kloves, based on a screenplay by Rowling.
The Stitches and Glue team assisted the VFX department creating practical puppets to bring its magical creatures to life onset. Accurate life- sized replicas were created to allow actors to interact with a physical representation of each creature.
Becky and Paul worked with VFX supervisor Christian Manz from Framestore, to solve several practical issues. The reference puppets offered a tangible reference for the film’s director, camera department and lighting department.
The practical puppets and their performers were later replaced or enhanced with digital assets created by VFX studio Framestore. The combination of practical and digital elements aimed to create a seamless and believable magical world.
The Scope of work included:
Incarnations of the Baby Qilin Puppet. This included a fully rodded puppet with mechanised legs and mouth. A number of modular variations of stuffy stand-ins which were held and operated by Eddie Redmeyne.
Niffler stand in Puppets. Variations included rodded puppet set-ups, heated body configurations and fully articulated posable versions.
Large scale Manticore Pincer, operated by 2 performers to create volume and interaction with cast members. Puppeteers Robin Guiver and Tom Wilton.
