An introductory film for Oceanus, the successor to the Mayflower.
Introduction
In response to a commission from MSubs and Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), our team was tasked with creating an introductory film for Oceanus, the successor to the Mayflower. This film aimed to showcase the vessel, still in its prototype phase, and its capabilities, particularly its resilience in hostile weather conditions. The film premiered at the prestigious World Ocean Summit.
Approach
Given Oceanus’ prototype status, traditional filming methods wouldn’t suffice to adequately portray its potential. Hence, we employed cutting-edge 3D visualisation techniques using CGI to depict the vessel in various simulated scenarios at sea. The use of CGI allowed us to showcase Oceanus’ design and its response to adverse weather conditions convincingly.
Additionally, we conducted interviews with key personnel involved in the Oceanus project to provide insights into the vessel’s development, design philosophy, and intended applications. Furthermore, we filmed experiments conducted in laboratories to highlight the scientific rigour and innovation behind Oceanus’ development.
Equipment Used
Sony FX3: Primary camera for high-quality video recording.
Mavic 3: Aerial drone used for capturing dynamic shots of Oceanus.
Blender software with mods: Utilised for CGI rendering and 3D visualisation.
Sony A7iii: Secondary camera for additional footage.
Results
The Oceanus introductory film was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from PML and other stakeholders. It was showcased for three consecutive days at the World Ocean Summit, providing a significant platform for exposure. Moreover, the film garnered substantial traction on social media platforms, generating high viewership and extensive sharing.
Conclusion
Through the innovative use of 3D visualisation techniques, combined with interviews and laboratory footage, the Oceanus introductory film effectively communicated the vision and potential of the prototype vessel. Its successful reception at the World Ocean Summit and significant impact on social media underscored its efficacy in raising awareness about the Oceanus project and its objectives. This case study highlights the power of multimedia storytelling in conveying complex ideas and promoting scientific innovation to a global audience.