Christmas Gifts for Animators 2017
Christmas 2017 is nearly upon us – so whether you’re thinking of what to buy that animation friend in your life, or you deserve treating yourself after a long year’s hard work, here is our annual top 10 list of gift ideas, in no particular order:
1. My Life As A Courgette DVD (£9.99)
Although you may have caught this film at one of many festivals in 2016, it was released this year and we thoroughly recommend getting yourself a copy if you don’t have it already. Nominated for a Golden Globe and Aademy Award for Best Animated Feature, this is the perfect film for audiences both young and old.
Buy from Amazon.co.uk
2. The Art of Rick and Morty (£19.93)
2017 hasn’t seen a wealth of ‘Art of’ books that we have become accustomed to, but for fans of the show we wanted to throw in this one which features exclusive never before seen concept art “with a killer Glow-in-the-Dark cover”!
Buy from Amazon.co.uk
3. Independent Animation: Developing, Producing and Distributing Your Animated Films (£23.20)
Skwigly’s very own Ben Mitchell explores how to develop, produce and distribute your films by showcasing some of the giants in the field and guiding readers through the artistic process and production techniques. Take a look at Nancy Denney-Phelps’ in-depth review of this 444 page book.
Buy from Amazon.co.uk
4. AnimDojo – Subscription (£15 per month)
AnimDojo is a series of exercises and workshops and workouts which Blue Zoo have designed so budding character animators can hone the skills needed to make it in the industry. In 2018 it will be launching a subscription-based, online programme
Subscribe here
5. Cartoon Saloon Playing Cards (€8)
“Song of the Sea and the Secret of Kells come alive with these gorgeous cards. Each one shows a different image from the film.” Whether you intend on actually playing with these, or just want to gaze at the stunning artwork, these will make a great stocking filler.
Buy from website
6. The Walt Disney Film Archives: The Animated Movies 1921-1968 (£87.75)
Not a small purchase by any means; this book is a 620-page voyage through the works of the Disney studios during Walt’s years. The 100% 5-star ratings on Amazon (at the time of writing) speak for themselves, but best summed up by the review that this book is “like visiting a Disney museum in your own time.”
Buy from Amazon.co.uk
7. Shaun The Sheep Virtual Reality Viewer (£14.99)
A cute stocking filler, download the free ‘Shaun The Sheep Movie Barn App’ and turn your smartphone into a virtual reality viewer with this Shaun The Sheep VR viewer.
Buy from website
8. The Red Turtle [Blu-ray + DVD] (£10.50)
Another film that you may have caught on the 2016 festival circuit, but is finally out on DVD and Blu-ray for you to enjoy at home. This 2-disc edition is a must for Michael Dudok de Wit and Studio Ghibli fans alike.
Buy from Amazon.co.uk
9. Loving Vincent: End Credit Book (Eglish Version)(£88)
2017 finally saw the release of the long awaited Loving Vincent feature film. As seen in the closing credits of Loving Vincent, find out more about the cast, real life characters they played and the original paintings by Vincent van Gogh that inspired the film with this book. Featuring 108 colour pages, this is a limited edition run – just 100 books of English version will be made available.
Buy from website
10. Loving Vincent Artwork/Prints (£120)
And finally, for those who love the film and the artwork of Vincent Van Gogh, you can pick up limited edition prints from the film. hand signed and numbered by Loving Vincent co-directors Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman!
Buy from website