334 Term Project Proposal

Zian Shang
zian.shang@stonybrook.edu

Title:

“Monkey with the Moon”

Synopsis:

“Monkeys Fishing the Moon” is one of the famous traditional stories in China often taught to children. In the original story, a monkey finds the moon’s reflection in a well, thinks it has fallen into the well, and tries to rescue it. Different versions of the story may include one or more monkeys saving the moon in different ways. There are versions of this story that end with an old monkey telling the other monkeys that it is just a reflection of the moon in the well and to look up at the moon. Nevertheless, all versions teach children that what we see isn’t necessarily the truth and the concept of water reflection.

In this 3D animation, the monkey walks by a pool of water, spots the moon reflected in it, and makes the face of the famous painting “The Scream”. Then it will try to save the moon with its hands. The moon in the well will be fetched by its hands and float to the moon in the sky, leaving the monkey to stare at the two moons in the sky in shock.

Objective: 

Create 3D animation “Monkey Fishing Moon” using animation tools and effects. Utilize software such as blender to bring characters to life with realistic movement and expression. Implement visual effects to enhance the storyline, including fluid simulation of lighting in three directions and water effects. Integrate sound design and music to complement the narrative. Ultimately, create an immersive experience while highlighting the subject matter.

Audience:

This 3D animation is targeted to audiences under 12 years old. With its simple plot and delightful characters, it provides a fun and entertaining experience for young viewers.

References:

“Monkeys Fishing the Moon” movie poster (1982)-

Chinese animated movie “Monkeys Fishing the Moon” (1982)-

“The Scream”-
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Scream

Free 3D Monkey Models-
https://www.turbosquid.com/Search/3D-Models/free/monkey

Monkey Reaching for the Moon’s Reflection in 16th century by a Japanese Artist-
https://artmuseum.princeton.edu/collections/objects/36448#:~:text=The%20image%20derives%20from%20a,distinguish%20between%20reality%20and%20illusion.

Buddhist encyclopedia compiled in Tang Dynasty that includes the original story-
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fayuan_Zhulin
https://ctext.org/wiki.pl?if=en&res=587706&remap=gb

Tutorial for making a Night Sky-

Link to Google drive:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xBA2MRna8CDFoHWWqt38BZc9eWFYyJ2b?usp=sharing