THE NORTHMAN - KINGS DEAD

Updated: Jan 23

Addition of CG spearheads
- I had super high resolution renders of spearheads I then tracked into place using traditional 2d methods
- There were prop heads that didn't have a long, sharp point, so I had a reference in plate to follow with. Made it easy to match any changes in highlights, but also dictated the look of the spears.
Petzval Lensing:
- The Unique DOF from the Petzval lens required a more detailed approach
- At the time, I got my hands on a Helios 44M lens and inverted its front element to recreate a similar kind of bokeh.
- Got a pretty trippy effect out of it, very ethereal and suited to the style of the film, especially in context as these Petzval shots were creams/visions Amleth saw.

Additional de-ageing clean-up work + finalizing:
- As VFX goes, multiple artists have their hands on shots, my part was to finalize and add further to the de-aging that was already done on this shot.
- The cat's eye style bokeh is something the Helios 44M is known for, so I also had to buy a 2nd one just for that. Reason being I can then hot-swap the Petzval modded lens for the regular Helios 44M.
- I decided it only be appropriate I modded the 2nd one too, this red coloured cellophane lead to an interesting result.
  This was a fun experiment, there was nothing much to do during the lockdowns besides working staying healthy and having a few hobbies.

Complete background replacement:
- Shot at a different time of day, needed matching to other shots in the SQ.
- Was originally bright + sunny, had to gloom it up through grading and layering different elements.
Stabilization of FG rock set:
- Slight wobble in the set as young Amleth is leaning against what I believe to be a foam rock
Snow elements added

Addition of CG spears
- Similar to the other spearhead shots in terms of technicalities. Harder to track, but more forgiving DOF
Snow elements added

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