Channel Frederator Blog

Illustrator and animator Rachinta Platts tells us about her romantic short film “Attraction”, the circus, and creepy presents with good intentions.

Channel Frederator: Where did you study animation?

Rachinta Platts: Norwich School of Art & Design. They have changed their name since I’ve graduated last year. I was interested in illustration but I thought I’ll broaden my skills to animation. It’s very rewarding to see your creation come to life.

CF: Who or what has influenced your work the most?

RP: Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Amelie, photographs of old circus and Studio Ghibli’s animations. The characters they’ve created have realistic gestures and expressions which are beautifully hand drawn. Then there are periodical dramas too. I like a bit of good old-fashioned romance.

CF: What gave you the idea for this film?

RP: Possibly started off from the day I passed by a mini circus tent. I thought of what kind of people work there, what they look like, which led me to an idea of an unsuccessful story involving a circus worker with one hand (a result from a freak accident). Then I did some research on sideshows where there are more colourful personalities to make up stories for.

CF: Can you talk about any upcoming projects?

RP: I’ve been asked to make a music video for Awesome Wells (aka Jonathan Palmer). He did the music for “Attraction”. Then there is my website to put up and some short clips to make for VJing.

CF: Have you ever done anything particularly unusual in the name of love?

RP: Um…in a friendship kind of love, I’ve sculpted a bust of my friend’s head in the style of the Beethoven bust. It wasn’t intended to be creepy but I think she appreciates it.

Thanks, Rachinta!

You can watch her short film “Attraction” right here on Channel Frederator!

-Bailee DesRocher