This project was assigned as a 60-second stop-motion animation designed to raise awareness about SDG 11: Sustainable Cities. I proposed a concept that treated pollution as a crime investigation, turning a stop-motion into a cinematic way because simply, why being obvious if you can be different. I took the lead in shaping the concept, directing the overall vision, and guiding the project from idea development through execution. I led the development of the core storyline, shaping the idea of pollution as “Most Wanted Criminals” investigated by a trash character - because simply, a trash is the collective of all polluters out there. Choosing a crime-film approach inspired by investigative thrillers, I used dramatic lighting, high contrast, tight framing, and suspenseful pacing to make the animation feel mature, intense, and visually distinct.

Leading the direction of the set design and world building, including the investigation room, alley pathways, and crime environments, each space was intentionally designed to support the narrative as moody, dark, confined, and tense. Rather than controlling every detail, my role was to direct, observe, and refine - understanding the strengths of each team member to assign roles strategically, allowing their creative handy skills to shine while maintaining a unified visual identity. I handled the photography process, controlling framing, camera stability, and movement across all scenes, keeping stop-motion movement intentionally minimal so lighting, sound, and framing could drive the storytelling.

I edited the final film with my team, integrating timing, pacing, color correction, carefully selected sound effects, and a professional voice actor to elevate the narration. During production, I oversaw the full execution process, making on-the-spot decisions to adapt the setup when challenges arose - such as time limitations, set movement, and technical adjustments - while preserving the intended mood. The final outcome resulted in a visually engaging and conceptually clear stop-motion film that approached the topic of sustainable cities in a thoughtful and distinctive way. Through experimentation, problem-solving, and collaboration, this project achieved a cohesive result that reflects both the learning process and the collective effort involved.

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