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Project Details
Project Details
Release: 2023
Client: Kingdom of Something
Artist/Performer: Willow (Stylized Character)
Services: Character Creation, 3D Modeling, Grooming, Keyframe Animation, Lookdev, Rendering
Campaign: Samsung Commercial
Format: Stylized Character / Commercial
Samsung "Willow" - Stylized Character Animation & 3D Modeling
We were thrilled to partner with Kingdom of Something to bring the charming "Willow" rabbit to life for a vibrant Samsung commercial campaign. This collaboration focused on high-end Character Animation and 3D Modeling, resulting in a stylized yet expressive protagonist that resonated with a global audience.
Overview
It was a creative privilege to work alongside the team at Kingdom of Something to develop Willow, a stylized rabbit character designed specifically for Samsung. Our goal was to support the client's artistic vision by blending the whimsical nature of a bunny with human-like expressions and gestures, ensuring the character felt relatable and full of personality.
Throughout the project, we focused on refining the Digital Double qualities of the asset to meet Samsung’s high visual standards. From the initial research on human-rabbit movement to the final 4K renders, the project was a shared journey in storytelling and technical artistry.
Project Experience
To ensure a tactile and premium feel for the Samsung "Willow" campaign, we utilized advanced 3D Modeling and fur simulation techniques to capture the soft textures of the character's coat and wardrobe. This meticulous process allowed us to maintain visual consistency across various lighting environments and camera angles.
Supporting the director’s vision for the Samsung "Willow" project involved deep research into Keyframe Animation, where we carefully balanced animal traits with human-like emotional cues. This collaborative effort ensured that every ear twitch and lip-sync movement felt intentional and helped the Artist/Performer connect with the audience.
The final visual impact of the Samsung "Willow" commercial was achieved through rigorous Lookdev and Rendering cycles, delivering high-fidelity 4K sequences. Working closely with Kingdom of Something’s feedback allowed us to polish every frame, ensuring the character integrated seamlessly into the final cinematic edit.
Mimic’s Contribution
Character Creation & Grooming:
We focused on the material realism of the Willow asset, specifically enhancing the fur simulation and subsurface scattering on the ears to catch the light naturally. Our team refined the groom for the body, whiskers, and jacket collar to ensure the character looked plush and high-end in every shot.
Keyframe Animation & Rigging:
To assist with the character's performance, we implemented rig refinements to the jacket and limbs, ensuring smooth deformations during movement. We also provided animation touchups based on client notes, smoothing out arm arcs and timing gestures to create a more natural, less robotic flow.
Lookdev & Final Delivery:
Our team supported the campaign by conducting extensive lighting tests and HDRI variations to find the perfect look for Willow. We managed the final rendering pipeline, providing 4K updates and specific shot fixes to ensure the character's interaction with props, like the phone and envelopes, was flawless.
Project Highlights
Credits
Client:
Kingdom of Something / Samsung
Mimic Role
Creative Partner:
Kingdom of Something
Technology Partners
Character Creation
3D Modeling
Grooming
Keyframe Animation
Rendering
N/A
Platform
N/A
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