The Hollywood Professional Association (HPA) has unveiled details for its upcoming HPA Tech Retreat Supersession, a five-day event scheduled from February 18 to 22, 2024. This year's Supersession will delve into the creative and technological aspects of animation through two distinct filmmaker collaborations.
Morning Session: Advanced Animation Techniques
The morning session on Tuesday, February 20, will focus on creating an original animated short titled “Ashen,” produced by a global team. Directed by Ruby Bell and executive produced by Mandy Walker ACS ASC, the project will explore cutting-edge techniques in animation.
- Idea and Script: A traditional script development process
- Workflow: Detailed production processes
- PreVis and Tech Viz: Previsualization tools
- Concept Art, Look Book, Beat Sheet: Visual development stages
- Audio Recording, ADR, Audio Mix: Sound design elements
- 3D Animation: Three-dimensional modeling and animation
- Virtual Camera: Use of virtual production technology
- Post Production in the Cloud: Cloud-based editing and finishing
- Editing Composition: Final cut and assembly
- Sound Composition: Soundtrack integration
- Epic Games: Utilization of Unreal Engine for animation
- Color Timing Animation: Color grading and correction
- Producing an Animation: Overall production management
The session will also highlight contributions from various companies, including Adobe, AWS, AJA, Avid, Autodesk, Big Bang Sound Design, Exceptional Minds, Keywords Studios, Moxion, Mriya Productions (Team Ukraine), Noitom Studios, Pow Wow Studios, Unreal Engine, and Westwind Media.
Afternoon Session: AI in Animation
The afternoon session will explore the use of Generative AI in animation through a project called “Curious Refuge.” This segment will demonstrate how AI technologies can be integrated into the visual storytelling process.
- Corridor Crew: Discussion on three types of AI-enabled animation
- AI Compositing: Automated compositing techniques
- Theoretically Media: Demonstrations of other AI video tools
- Custom Training and Custom Models: Tailored AI solutions
- AI Pipeline and Workflow: Streamlining production with AI
- Curious Refuge: Introduction to the first home for AI storytellers
- AI Music and Sound: Integration of AI in audio creation
This session will feature speakers such as Niko Pueringer, Tim Simmons, Caleb Ward, Shelby Ward, and Jack Wenzinger.
Panel Discussion and Screenings
The day will conclude with a panel discussion featuring teams from both the morning and afternoon sessions. Both animated shorts will be screened to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the creative processes involved.
Seth Hallen, HPA President and head of the HPA Tech Retreat Programming Committee, emphasized the event's focus on technology-driven creativity. “At the HPA Supersession, we explore how technology enhances human creativity through live demonstrations,” he stated. “This year’s sessions will provide an in-depth look at advanced techniques and emerging AI technologies.”
The event, held at the Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, California, includes additional programs such as TR-X on Monday and a main conference program on Wednesday and Thursday. The Innovation Zone will showcase the latest products and technologies from various sponsors.