What is the film about?

‘Laundry Day’ uses Blender and Unreal Engine to explore the intersection of technology and humanity in an inner-city laundromat. The film follows Ren-303, a service bot designed to assist with household chores, as it patiently waits for its master’s wash load to finish while reading a book. What follows is an emotionally resonant journey as Ren-303 reflects on its role in the life of its host family and contemplates the impending moment of its retirement.

As the camera immerses us in the laundromat’s mundane yet intimate setting, it becomes evident that Ren-303’s role extends beyond just being a mechanical assistant. It has played an integral part in the lives of numerous families, observing and supporting them throughout their everyday tasks. The film’s storytelling brings out a poignant and timely theme, urging audiences to ponder the implications of advancing technology and its impact on human connections.

Created as part of Bomper Studio’s internal development programme ‘Bomper Academy’.

What influenced it?

As someone who is personally acquainted with saying goodbyes to family, Bianca Iancu chose to direct this film because I wanted to explore a portrayal of this often bittersweet, melancholic emotion. Feeling very inspired by the series Love Death + Robots, Bianca felt a futuristic setting would be interesting for the scenario as a robot is an unusual character choice for familial feelings.

Taking influence from vaporwave aesthetics, ‘Laundry Day’ leans into that through a vibrant colour palette, glitch effects, retro appliances and embraces imperfections through a wonky art style.

A little background information...

Bomper Studio released this heartfelt debut inhouse short – a snapshot tale of love, loss, and laundry – directed by Lead Animator Bianca Iancu, as part of its internal talent development programme in nurturing tomorrow’s filmmakers.

Wanting to explore Unreal Engine with Blender as part of the studios pipeline and upskilling the wider team, Bomper opened the floor for idea’s to be pitched forward as part of the development. After completing a BFI Academy course ‘Explore Filmmaking: from Script to Screen’, Bianca pitched the 1 minute micro short which was selected as an opportunity to realise her new skillset and explore her creativity.

Bomper Studio launched Bomper Academy in early 2023, as part of its commitment to shaping the future of the creative industry in Wales and inspiring the next generation. The programme provides a more structured way to facilitate learning and development to foster talent, and put those new skills into practice on live projects as part of a selected pitching process.

How was the film made?

The atmospheric film uses Blender and Unreal Engine to explore the intersection of technology and humanity in an inner-city laundromat.