MICHAEL PARKS: SENIOR CHARACTER ANIMATOR
www.michaelmparks.com
*************@*****.***
**** ***** **** **** ********, CA 94803
With extensive professional experience, I will bring a solid, refined background in appealing character animation to a studio position. Exceptional organization and self-motivation accompany a well-developed sense of detail, acting and realism, and the ability to implement direction. Work has demonstrated a strong understanding of weight and locomotion as well as humor and entertainment.
• Collaboration
• Traditional Animation Principles
• Team Dynamics
• Storytelling & Entertainment
"Both Michael's persona and his work have created some truly memorable scenes here at Pixar, each one completed with an agility and speed that has helped the whole team to finish these sometimes daunting films on time." --Mark Walsh, Directing Animator, Finding Nemo
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
FILM AND TELEVISION
Reliance MediaWorks - San Francisco, CA
March 2011-May 2011
Animation and FX
Animator
Feature film animation.
SPY POST - San Francisco, CA
January, February 2011
Animation and FX
Animator
Short-term project providing animation for a promotional spot on a very tight schedule.
• Quickly developed workflow for creating and revising shots in time for client reviews.
IMAGEMOVERS DIGITAL - Novato, CA
2009-2010
Feature film character animation utilizing motion capture and keyframe.
Senior Animator
Responsible for adding realism and believable performances to mocap data on a tight schedule. Worked in collaboration with animation supervisors, fellow animators and other departments.
• Delivered shots and series of shots on time, including 66 shots for Mars Needs Moms.
• Handled full range of shots, including subtle acting, action, and crowds.
PIXAR ANIMATION STUDIOS - Emeryville, CA
1996-2004
Feature film character animation.
Animator
Created character animation for five features, four shorts, and promotional projects. Developed a reputation for effectively handling complex assignments, including shots with main characters, crowds, and effects. Collaborated with riggers, T.D.s, and effects directors.
• Developed own methods of achieving quick turnarounds, keeping animation of schedule.
• Created effects animation including realistic fish cycles, debris, 3-D, aircraft, and foliage.
• Researched and taught animation history class for Pixar University.
• Edited video presentation for future film.
“No one turns around notes quicker than Michael-he is an example to the rest of the crew in his ability to address comments quickly. Michael was one of the highest footage producers on the show, nearly 2 feet above the average.” Pete Docter, Director, Monsters Inc
GAME ANIMATION
SECRET LEVEL - San Francisco, CA
2007-2008
Senior Animator
Created two full sets of in-game animation for a realistic human enemy and creature. Worked closely with animation lead and programmers to ensure fun gameplay and smooth animation.
• Completed assignments on time to meet milestone deadlines.
• Quickly learned company pipeline and animation tree.
STORMFRONT STUDIOS - San Rafael, CA
2005-2006
Senior Animator
Worked closely with animation team and directors to create effective in-game animation for realistic humans and dragon. Animated several minutes of compelling cinematic sequences.
• Completed assignments on time to meet tight milestone deadlines.
• Edited video presentations and animatics, eliminating need to hire contract editor.
TEACHING
EX’PRESSION COLLEGE - Emeryville, CA
2007-2009
Instructor
Created curriculum and taught classes in Maya and hand-drawn character animation.
FREELANCE
Included animation, commercials, animatics, video presentations, and DVD authoring. Developed skills in team leadership and management. Produced an animated short for a children’s book publisher and an animated welcome trailer and documentary for the Alameda Theatre.
EDUCATION AND SKILLS
Bachelor of Arts, Filmmaking, Animation Emphasis
San Francisco State University, CA
CSU Summer Arts Film Festival “Best in Show” and other international awards
Extended Education Classes: Pixar University & IMD art, acting, and writing classes
Technical Skills: Maya, Final Cut Studio, Photoshop, After Effects, Windows, Linux, Mac