"Love & Hate"

After watching "Nuit Blanche" in class last week, I wanted to see more work by Arev Manoukian. I couldn't believe that something so awesome (for lack of a better word) wasn't ever shown to me before, had never come up in my [almost] four years at Park, or something I hadn't found for myself on the internet. In my search I found the opening Manoukian directed for the Advertising & Design Club of Canada awards.

Again, Manoukian demonstrates great control and attention to detail. The beginning of the video reminds me of the particles effect, but they're pieces of paper that finally pause in time. One of my favorite moments is when we're watching the suspended papers and the focus is on one page with a drawing on it. Even when we get the close ups of the employees, take a look at how many papers are in the background. I was pleased to read that Manoukian received an award for his work on the this opening... a Gold at the Bessie Awards.

Nuit Blanche - Arev Manoukian

A friend of mine showed me this short film the other day, saying it is one of the most beautiful things he has ever seen. I wasn't sure what to expect but he was definitely correct in saying it is beautiful. "Nuit Blanche" is only about 4 minutes long but explores the simple concept of two people sharing a connection and does so in such a unique way. Everything about it is so thought out and so visually stunning. It has a film noir feel to it and as I was watching it, I couldn't help but admire all the lighting and intense contrast. Here is the film:

What's even better is the director, Arev Manoukian, also has a video that shows the making of "Nuit Blanche" in great detail. Practically all of it is animation and it is amazing to see all of the different layers that went into creating this world. It is such a visually complex piece and I have watched it multiple times just to take it all in. I definitely recommend you all check it out!

Here is the "Making Of" video: