The Morning Watch: The Character Driven Comedy Of ‘Shaun Of The Dead’, ‘Coco’ Off The Page & More
The Morning Watchis a recurring feature that highlights a handful of noteworthy videos from around the web. They could be video essays, fanmade productions, featurettes, short films, hilarious sketches, or just anything that has to do with our favorite movies and TV shows.
In this edition, a video essay explores howShaun of the Deadcreates comedy with substance by staying true to its characters. Plus, see how the script forCococompares to the final cut of the movie for a key sequence from the film, and watch the face melting effects fromRaiders of the Lost Arkrecreated with crayons.
A movie about the zombie apocalypse might not be all that realistic, but what’s great about a movie likeShaun of the Deadis how director Edgar Wright creates comedy that stays true to the substance of the film’s main character. Everything that happens inShaun of the Deadis in service of defining Shaun and helping him grow as a character. Watch the fullShaun of the Deadvideo essay fromLessons from the Screenplayfor a detailed explanation.
Next up, see how a pivotal scene from the end of Pixar’sCocoplays out on screen compared to the film’s original script. You’ll see how closely the final product resembles the screenplay, from the action beats to the dialogue. Even the rhythm of the scene plays out in a quick, concise manner. It just goes to show you how much thought goes into writing animated movies.
Finally, check out the melting head of Toht fromRaiders of the Lost Arkrather spectacularly recreated using some crayons and clay. This time lapse video fromSteven Richtershows him sculpting Toht and then using heat to melt the face. If you’re looking for a cheap way to create this effect at home, here you go.
