Welcome to the Plume Films Blog.
Fancy a look behind the lens? Here at Plumefilms, we're pleased to invite you into our creative world. This isn't just a blog; it's our way of sharing the real nitty-gritty of putting films together. We're talking sketchbooks, fleeting thoughts, hard-won insights, brewing ideas, and all the little fragments that come from being knee-deep in a production. Think of it as a friendly chat over a cuppa, revealing the passions and occasional predicaments that shape our work.
The Cowgirl Project: Handmade Charm Meets Virtual Production Wizardry
Discover how Plume Films and Racquet Studios pushed creative boundaries in The Cowgirl Project, combining handmade animation, model, making, and Unreal Engine virtual production for a groundbreaking short film adventure. Learn about our hybrid filmmaking process, unique art direction, and cutting, edge virtual production techniques that seamlessly blend craft and technology. Drive commissions for your next innovative project.
A Guide to Commissioning Animators
Hiring an animation team means entrusting them with your precious project—but the secret to an original, impactful result is simple: you must trust the process.
Our guide breaks down our collaborative workflow, the power of key sign-offs, and why championing your creative partner's expertise is the essential step for success.
What Defines a Career Highlight in Filmmaking?
What really defines a career highlight? For us at Plume Films, it’s not always the spotlight moments, it’s the projects built on trust, respect, and creative partnership. Discover the story behind The In-Between and why collaboration is at the heart of everything we do.
My Perspective on Writing Funding Applications
The secret to a successful funding application? Do not rush the process. We found that by chipping away at the details, it became both thorough and enjoyable
The Cowgirl Project: Handmade Charm Meets Virtual Production Wizardry
In the world of filmmaking, perhaps one of the most wonderful shapes are those created in virtual production. The Cowgirl Project is our tribute to bringing tangible, handmade artistry to the digital world.
Crafting Hope, One Frame at a Time: A Look at Our Process for the Climate Lead Film
A special look at our new film for Climate Lead. We're crafting a powerful, collaged call to arms to inspire climate action, blending handcrafted animation with live footage from Australia. A project with soul.
The Art of the Slow Frame: Why Handcrafted Thinking Still Matters in Animation
Some evenings I carve lino blocks. Other nights I roll ink. Sometimes I just sit and sketch without caring if it’s “good” or “bad.” Each stage feels different, yet all feed the same thing: a love for making. Our animation work at Plume Films grows from this same spirit, slow art that leaves space for stories to breathe.
From Eiffel Tower to Outer Space: How Perspective Shapes Storytelling
From Eiffel’s heights to Earth seen from space, perspective changes everything. Our latest project Marble explores how new vantage points reshape art and story.
Plume Films' Animation Takes Flight in Tate Britain's New Turner Film
Step inside the world of Turner, reimagined for the screen. We are proud to share that JMW Turner: On the Wing, a new film presented by Tate, is now open to the public at Tate Britain. As the animation partner on this ambitious project, Plume Films was delighted to contribute to a work that celebrates one of Britain’s greatest artists in bold, visual form.
When the Screen Stalls, Step Outside: Finding Answers on the Path Less Trodden
Feeling creatively stuck? Richard shares his secret: the profound impact of walking in nature on creative flow and problem-solving.
The Art of the Cosmos: Introducing 'MARBLE' – A New Chapter in Plume Films' Immersive Storytelling
Announcing an exciting new collaboration: Richard Jackson of Plume Films joins forces with award-winning composer Clive Whitburn to create MARBLE—a groundbreaking 90-minute live audio-visual performance blending cinematic ISS footage with an original orchestral-electronic score.
The Art of Imperfection: Crafting Raw Emotion in a New Documentary
Crafting Raw Emotion: Behind Plume Films' New Documentary Animation Project
The Beautiful Tussle of Creative Diversity
Here's the rub: many clients and audiences instinctively want to align themselves with a particular "gang." They want to know what they're getting into…
Bringing Turner's World to Life: The Art of Colour and Texture in Animation
Turner On The Wing - Our focus shifts to two equally crucial heroes: colour and texture. It’s in these subtle layers that true visual harmony is found…
Why I Don’t Like Storyboards (But Use Them Anyway)
When I was little, I drew my own version of a Calvin and Hobbes comic strip. It was about Calvin getting hold of a giant water balloon. He struggles to fill it until it’s so big he has to hold it above his head and can’t put it down. Hobbes tries to help, but…
Behind the Scenes of The Cowgirl Project: Where Cardboard Cities Meet Virtual Worlds
Go behind the scenes of "The Cowgirl Project," a groundbreaking short film by Plume Films and Racquet Studios. Discover how handmade cardboard cityscapes and innovative Unreal Engine virtual production created a unique cinematic experience.
From Star Wars to J.M.W. Turner: The Enduring Charm of Practical Effects in Animation
Discover how Plume Films used ingenious practical effects in our bespoke animation for The Turner Project, bringing art history to life for Tate Britain. Learn about our creative problem-solving and collaboration with major cultural institutions.
When Unexpected Discoveries Lead to Creative Breakthroughs
Here at Plume Films, we're perpetually fascinated by the unexpected turns a creative journey can take….
The Cowgirl Project: Where It All Began
Some ideas sneak up quietly and refuse to leave. The Cowgirl began that way. It started with an image in my head. A girl in a cowboy hat, sitting beside a lighthouse, a dark cloud looming behind her.
Unveiling the Unseen: Blips and Hidden Layers in The Turner Project
The creative journey, especially in animation, is rarely a straight line…
Our Adventures on Instagram
Want more Plume? Dive into our regular dose of behind-the-scenes insights, works in progress, and all things film! Follow us on Instagram for a peek into our latest projects, creative inspiration, and maybe even a few bloopers. Let's connect!
