Jennifer Shiman interview part 2
exclusive talk with 30-Second Bunnies Theatre animator
Oct 17, 2006
At long last, I can give you the second part of my interview with Jennifer Shiman, the creator and sole animator for internet phenomenon 30-Second Bunnies Theatre. Enjoy, and check out Part#1 over here.
"Hi, Dominic! Many apologies for the delay, and thank you for your patience!"
No problem. Your work was showcased at the Ottawa Festival of Animation in 2004. What was that like?
"I wasn't physically there, but I was thrilled to have won for Best Internet Series. A friend called and told me the news. It was a dream come true, because I had entered the festival once before (a few years ago, with a different entry) and got rejected."
You create your cartoons using Flash animation. What are the advantages and disadvantages of Flash? Are you thinking of trying other techniques/platforms?
"I'm sticking with Flash for now, the main advantages being its cost-effectiveness and flexibility (reach an audience online, and via broadcast). I cannot think of any disadvantages for me, because the style I work in translates well using Flash. I guess when my style evolves, we'll see if Flash remains the best means of implementation."
You essentially are Angry Alien Productions. Is it hard being a company of one? Are you thinking of expanding your operations, planning on bringing more people on board?
"Sometimes it is hard when you're responsible for all aspects of running a business, the creative and the administrative. But i have no plans to expand production/bring people on board in the near future."
Why the name Angry Alien? Where did that come from?
"When I started doing business as Angry Alien Productions in 1998, I sketched a bunch of sample logos, including one depicting a testy alien standing by the phone. I loved the idea of a testy alien and decided to use the logo and company name myself."
Who do you feel are your stylistic influences? Which animators do you admire?
"Influences? Bill Plympton (Writer's note: an award-winning animator/director of such films as Mutant Aliens and I Married a Strange Person) ! and (legendary Looney Tunes director) Chuck Jones. In terms of timing, for sure.
"As far as animators I admire, I have to mention Bill Plympton, (Wallace and Gromit animator) Nick Park, and Hayao Miyazaki!"
How about other online animators who have caught your eye?
"Oh Homestarrunner.com, how I love you so! Ditto Ze Show with Ze Frank (this show isn't animated per se, but Ze Frank makes many a cool Flash project)."
What are your future plans? Where do you see yourself in ten years?
"More bunny stuff for now! I just see myself continuing to make cartoon stuff and being happy."
Is there anything else you'd like to talk about that I haven't touched on?
"The bunnies say, 'Hi!'"
There you go. Be sure to check out www.angryalien.com to see Shiman's animation, or tune in to Starz.
