e.d. films announces three projects currently in production thanks to an Epic MegaGrant. A pioneer in real-time animation workflows, e.d. films is using new techniques – both experimental and proven – on two shorts and a VR experience that ties interactive animation to changes in music, all slated for 2020.
Epic MegaGrants is a $100 million initiative designed to “support game developers, enterprise professionals, media and entertainment creators, students, educators and tool developers doing amazing things with Unreal Engine or enhancing open-source capabilities for the 3D graphics community.” e.d. films is the first animation company to announce their award.
Projects in Production:
- Hairy Hill – An upcoming short, Hairy Hill explores a rural family’s relationship with nature and tragedy through an artful blend of traditional 2D, paper puppetry and performance-driven animation. Through custom tools and game engines, Hairy Hill is creating a new fable from a personal narrative.
- Three Trees – As the seasons change, three trees learn about themselves, friendship and their place in the world. This sweet children’s short was written by M.R. Horhager (, Chirp) and created by combining PSD to 3D with Unreal’s aptitude for look development and worldbuilding.
- The Garden – Directed by David Barlow-Krelina (Caterpillarplasty; com), The Garden is an ambitious musical VR project about a strange little man with a blossoming mind. The current builds fuse classical cinema, real-time and interactive animation into an experience that is rapidly evolving.
As part of this process, e.d. films has established a cross-functional team to blend artistry and R&D into the new productions. Experiments in cloth and paper simulations, environments and painterly aesthetics are already being perfected, helping e.d. films learn more about what’s going to work for real-time animation teams.
“Game engines are a revolution in motion,” said Emily Paige, president of e.d. films. “Every year, we get better and more ambitious. It’s been exciting to work with the Epic team on this progression, as they see the same future in real-time animation and want to empower creators just like we do. We look forward to seeing where it all goes, and hope to make an impact where we can.”
e.d. films is a Montreal-based boutique animation studio specializing in premium, custom animated content. Founded in 2007, e.d. films has become an industry favorite thanks to its unique style and unwavering commitment to sharing its processes and knowledge online. In 2018, e.d. films launched a store to provide access to the tools it creates during its productions, including Giant Bear and the upcoming short, Hairy Hill. Watch the studio’s reel here.
