A-X-L

A-X-L POV

Our brief was to visualise AXL’s learning process, from post-crash reboot through to more sophisticated data processing and emotional connection. The aim was to depict this evolution from functional machine to a more emotionally intelligent AI.

Drawing references from the LiDAR technology used by autonomous cars and robots, we were able to ground the POV in credible technology that played into the narrative. Our UI refernces LiDAR’s 3D point clouds, providing data about range, reflectance, density and spatial structure.

We created a visual system that charted AXL’s progress by beginning with basic black and white point clouds and moves to more sophisticated horizontal and Z-scans that more accurately map faces and moving objects.

Using Andrew Gant’s scans we added textural layers and colour gradation to refine look and feel, and contextual UI layers as a human / computer interface to help the audience understand the robots ‘thought’ process.

As a filmmaker, you look for collaborators that latch onto your vision, and stick with you through thick and thin until the darn thing is up on the screen. I could not ask for a more exciting and positive collaborative experience. I can always count on Territory to flesh out the vaguest ideas and solve the most befuddling problems. They are a pleasure to work with from the stop-and-start development days, all the way through delivery crunch time. A profoundly talented team of storytellers, true creative comrades.

Oliver Daly – Director

Projection Frames

In the story AXL comes preloaded with three projections that explain the robot’s purpose and capability. We created each projection to tie in with storybeats that illustrate AXL’s advanced artificial intelligence, and military support role to protect and assist with reccon and logistics. The look and feel is consistent with futuristic military aesthetic and helps the audience to understand context.

A-X-L Styleframes

We used LiDAR and Kinect data, as well as green screen footage of the actors to create the performance and environment. The 3D models were then exposed to various forms of particle styles and combined in post to create the final look.

Depth Kit Behind the Scenes

Andrew Gant’s Depth Kit set up offered geometry that feels similar to LIDAR scans, and this worked well for the brief. The upgraded Depth Kit system worked with green screen, which made is useful for a feature film in which you have more variables to control (weather, lighting, movement, dust, etc).

A-X-L POV

Projection Frames

Craine Systems UI

A-X-L Styleframes

Depth Kit Behind the Scenes

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