Six Questions with Pierce Davison

9 April 2009

Working on Mary and Max

Screenings - External

Pierce Davison worked as Assistant to the animators on Adam Elliot’s latest Animated feature, ‘Mary and Max’, which opens today at Luna Cinemas.

How would you describe ‘Mary and Max’?
It is a beautifully crafted script with solid visuals to back it up. I got teary and emotional after reading the script (as much as a man can get emotional) and Adam Elliot translated the script into the film perfectly. Its brilliant.

Who else was involved in making the film?
There were about 4 Perth Ex-pats in the 50 person crew and all very exceptional. It was like going to a Startrek convention dressed like Spock and 50 other people were all dressed the same, you know its going to be awesome. Being immersed into animation culture for 8months skilled my own work further than was attainable from the internet or books, I can totally make a half inch rotator that locks into a puppet from brass. Awesome.

What was the Production process like?
I’ve never really worked under a director before so I thought it would be weird but Adam is really on the ball with his ideas and style. He spent time with everyone and we all felt important to the process. I assisted the animators which gave me a lot of time to understand their process and how they approach the shots which will improve my own work. The days were long but they zoomed by. I want to do it again.

What’s next on the cards for you?
I am currently doing Nick Shorts with a tight deadline looming which is great and then the final Filmex which is almost ready to start filming. The studio is chock-a-block with castles and forests.

What advice would you give to someone about a career in Animation?
I would say focus on engaging scripts first, quality animating second; and to secretly get annoyed when people say “oh you must be patient”.

Who is your filmmaking idol?
Its the usual idol: Harryhausen. He had such a love for the artform unlike that turncoat Tippet who went to computers which all looked terrible. But if you want the best animation auteur ever – and to see the greatest short film – you can’t go past Don Hertzfelt and “Rejected”.

Image: Pierce Davison