Channel Frederator Blog

Animator Jim Dirshberger collaborated with artists Kelly Tunstall and Ferris Plock to create “The Seafarers - Sea of Love”, a story set on the high seas. This tale has it all: Action! Adventure! Animatronic genitalia?

CF: Tell us a little somethin’ ’bout yourself.

Jim Dirshberger: I’m a filmmaker/animator living in San Francisco. I’m currently directing an animated web series called the Forest City Rockers and I produce short films which can be seen on my website.

SF is a kind city with lots of great artists who are eager to collaborate, it’s a great place for an animator like myself. The artists, Ferris Plock and Kelly Tunstall, were not only eager but they’re also extremely talented. I’m very fortunate to have worked with them.

CF: I love the design of the Seafarer’s seafarin’ jalopy. Where did you draw your inspiration from for the style of the film?

JD: I approached this as an adventure story. Most of my inspiration came from the adventure films I enjoyed as a child, such as “The Explorers” and “The Goonies”. I wanted a little bit of everything…action, drama and laughs. As for the design, that’s straight from the minds of the artists.

CF: Robot laser wiener. Explain.

JD: Ha, you’ll have to ask Ferris Plock about that one, as he’s the guy that drew it. It’s totally unexpected and I love it…very interesting to animate. The laser wiener always gets a great reaction out of people too. More animations should feature it.

CF: Why do guys dig mermaids so much?

JD: Seashell bras!

CF: Ha! Thanks for the interview, Jim!

You can check out “The Seafarers - Sea of Love” right here on Channel Frederator.

-Bailee DesRocher