Pitch for my idea

Here is a copy of my Pitch for the individual project idea.

I propose to create a 3D animation that relates to the topic of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. (OCD). OCD is a mental health disorder that happens when a person gets a series of unwanted, intrusive and distressing thoughts. This particular area is something that I feel passionate about as it affects me. It is something that I have to deal with on a daily basis and so with this project, my aim is to create awareness and understanding of the disorder. Animation and modelling is the area where I most feel comfortable and so, working in this area will be beneficial to me. Many children and adults don’t understand what OCD is nor how people affected by it struggle. I read into the theme and did some research on psychology, looking at cognitive behaviour therapy and different forms of compulsions before narrowing down the potential ideas. The books that I read are listed below and contain real world examples of OCD and its problems. Although I was unable to find a coping method or solution for the disorder, I was able to think of some aesthetically pleasing and powerful images that could incorporate themselves into an animation to deliver a powerful message about the pain of OCD. This animation would focus on a particular aspect of the disorder, not necessarily well known and explore it through a story of a character struggling to cope. My main idea for this is that of a man making his way through the Arctic only to fight for survival as the ice cracks around him. As he comes to the realisation that he is trapped within an area of ice, he begins to break down. The environment then changes to a household scene where the man is cowering. It is revealed that the ice cracks are in fact metaphorical for the cracks in the path outside his house and he is struggling to leave his home due to the cracks that he is unable to pass. This shows us the real fear that many deal with due to this debilitating disorder.              

            This concept of taking an OCD related issue and turning it into a much bigger situation is relatable as that feeling of dread happens to many sufferers as mentioned in the books that I read. I feel animation is a good medium to express this. Some video influences also managed to benefit me as there are some 3D cartoons relating to some aspects of OCD but not nearly enough. E.g “Flick” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_poqjXuthg, a short relating to the superstitions surrounding OCD. With regards to the technical side of this project, I have looked at tutorials relating to Booleans/cracked ice and fluid simulation which could be of use to the project. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKYs1UXvTTQ

            Having researched into mental health in the past as part of film based projects and having a form of OCD myself, it is easier to relate to the concept and produce something that I feel is unique, that I am passionate about. This project will allow me to create awareness of a topic and work towards an awareness goal that can benefit many people who suffer in this area every day.