WWF Takes The Breath Away In Emotive Stop-Motion Film Made Using Real Smoke
By Mikelle Leow, 05 Dec 2023
Image courtesy of NOMINT
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is breathing the message of climate emergency into its captivating new film, Up in Smoke, at COP28. This latest collaboration between the foundation and London’s NOMINT animation studio uses innovative stop-motion animation with real smoke to deliver a powerful message about the billowing global climate crisis caused by fossil fuel emissions. The film is set to the haunting melody of Billie Eilish and Finneas’s When the Party’s Over, reinterpreted to amplify its environmental urgency.
The animation plunges viewers into a smog-engulfed world, where a young girl symbolizes humanity facing the dire consequences of relentless fossil fuel use.
Image courtesy of NOMINT
The narrative is brought to life with over 700 unique 3D-printed sculptures, each capturing the girl’s different poses amid a bleak backdrop. The scenes were meticulously shot in-camera over a year.
Image courtesy of NOMINT
Up in Smoke follows the successful lineage of Can’t Negotiate the Melting Point of Ice and A Flammable Planet, previous works by the same team that used real melting ice and live fire, respectively. These annual pieces have garnered critical acclaim, bagging prestigious awards from Cannes Lions, Webbys, Clios, and more for their innovative approach to storytelling and environmental advocacy.
Director Yannis Konstantinidis and his team at NOMINT have created a visually arresting film that not only illustrates the devastating impact of fossil fuels on the planet but also underlines the need for immediate action towards 100% renewable energy. The film is backed by the harmonious vocals of The Social Singing Choir from Margate, adding an emotive layer to the smoke.
Image courtesy of NOMINT
Image courtesy of NOMINT
Through its poignant narrative and artistic portrayal, Up in Smoke stands as a stark reminder of our planet’s fragility and the immediate need for sustainable change. The animation is a compelling clarion call urging global leaders and the public to recognize and act against the climate crisis.
Image courtesy of NOMINT
Image courtesy of NOMINT
WWF, at COP28, is pushing for a global commitment to phase out all fossil fuels well before 2050, with developed countries taking the lead. The film underscores the need for ambitious targets to transform the global energy system, emphasizing renewable energy, increased efficiency, and expanded access.
Image courtesy of NOMINT
[via NOMINT, video and images courtesy]