"We were using real fish as models," says Animator Michael Mellor, "But they were obviously going to be doing unrealistic things (talking and dancing), to name but two. So the trick was to walk a line between necessary stylization, and an overly ’cartoony’ look." Fellow Animator, Nicklas Andersson, agrees. "You can use the natural features of the fish in your favour," he points out, "The piranha, for example, has a certain set to his lips that lends itself to certain expressions (they just look right on his face ...)"

Telecine for the spot was provided by Framestore CFC Colourist Dave Ludlam. "We arrived at a look early on," he says, "And did a final mastergrade at the end of the job to bring it all together. Obviously, the focus of the spot is the tank, so we tried to keep the room quite dark, bringing out the fluorescent, luminous qualities of the water."

Cronin is clearly very proud of the work the Framestore CFC team have done on The Salmon Dance. He sums up his feelings by pointing out that many people (including the directors) have said that once you’ve seen the video it becomes impossible to picture the vocalist as anyone other than a piranha. Which is probably as good a definition as any of an animation job well done.

More Information at: www.framestore-cfc.com - Image and Video Courtesy of Framestore CFC.