As we zero in on the character design of the Hacker, we begin to incorporate layouts to help see how the designs fit into the scenes themselves.

We like the Asian design best and so we’ve moved forward with that in mind (this design is still open to confirmation). We also like the full goggles, as they allow him to remain mysterious up to the end, and highlight the reveal of his face.

Even if these designs need to be modified or redone, feedback regarding the layouts and the action are useful, and allows the work to serve double-duty.

In scene 002, cut 02 we see him in profile, manipulating the holographic display elements. The hands perform the majority of the animated action in this cut, and we can emphasize the motions by animating them along the depth plane as they perform the deliberate actions that control the computers.

In S05C01 we see his face full on, and a holographic display pops up to illustrate the feed from the UAV bug. By arranging the popup screen so that it only partially covers his face we can emphasize the effect of the display itself.

In S07C03 the hacker removes his goggles to reveal his face. We’ve thrown together some rough keys to suggest his stress and concerns, as well as showing some subtle tech effects with the data jack or the extendable band on the goggles (rather than being elastic, it extends out on rollers. This way is doesn’t sit so tightly on the face that it’s being pulled against the skin as modern goggles do. A sound effect will help emphasize the action).

There was an initial confusion with the scientists, in that we thought there was two types; the “observers”, and the “nurse”.  The new design sheet is based on notes from the previous design and a re-examination of the animatic.

It’s been suggested that the scientists prefer to cover their features, and that they are “not quite human”. One way to convey that impression without seeing their expressions is in their behaviour and body language. If, for instance, one tilts their head from the neck pivot (rather than the shoulder), it appears more reptilian or birdlike. Twitches, odd gestures or weird walks can also convey a sense of something being “wrong” with the character.

Lastly, we return to the UAV bug design to expand upon the extending data jack as shown in the previous model sheet. While initially appearing to be a simple electrical plug, it opens and expands to show that it’s much more complex.

The angle for the final composition should probably be more dynamic, as well as more detailed, but this effectively shows how we might handle the action of the bug plugging into an unfamiliar port with a universal tool.

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