Exploration and Preservation of Philippine Folklore and Culture through film and CGI

Richard Nhel M. Sales

Timothy Franz G. Gelvoligaya

Georgia Mari C. Elardo

Bon Andy A. Padilla

Introduction

Background of the Study

"Today's entertainment industry extensively utilizes VFX, impacting every aspect of filmmaking. Notable

films like 'Harry Potter,' 'Jurassic Park,' 'King Kong,' and others incorporate VFX, influencing the quality

of visual effects (Raturi & Panwar, 2021). VFX finds application in various media, including movies,

commercials, short films, daily serials, and internet platforms, driven by its cost-effectiveness. However,

this widespread use has raised concerns about its impact on quality.

With advancements in technology and 3D filmmaking, we have chosen to create a film based on Filipino

folktlore to preserve our local stories. Film serves as an effective medium to communicate with our

audience, especially through social media and the internet, the most prominent platforms today.

Since its introduction in the late 1960s, computer-generated imagery (CGI) has played a pivotal role in

film production, particularly in visual effects, animation, and big-budget blockbusters. CGI constantly

evolves, pushing digital imagery to its limits (Rehak, 2023).

While VFX uses existing images and enhances them with effects, CGI involves creating and illustrating

animations and effects using computer programs. While CGI is prevalent in Hollywood, its use in the

Philippines is limited due to constraints related to efficiency, budget, and manpower (Naquita, 2020).

Nevertheless, both CGI and VFX contribute significantly to the visual appeal of films and TV series,

particularly those in the fantasy, horror, and superhero genres. Examples include 'Titik: An Aswang

Chronicles,' 'Darna,' and 'Revenger Squad.'

This research focuses on modern filmmaking techniques that utilize CGI, incorporating knowledge from

3D DMA and other Hollywood-standard methods. It covers various aspects of CGI production, including

modeling, texturing, rigging, animation, and VFX for compositing and additional elements. The study

spans the entire production pipeline, from pre-production to post-production."

State of the problem

The challenges inherent in CGI film production are multifaceted, encompassing high production costs,

time-intensive processes, and restricted access to high-end equipment for real-time rendering. These

factors collectively contribute to the complexities of CGI film production

There exists a limited representation of Filipino folktales and cultural elements.

The research faces limitations in terms of data gathering, given the constrained pool of individuals

available for interviews within Negros Occidental who possess prior experiences with supernatural beings

from our local folktales.

Scope and limitations

This research is dedicated to examining the perspectives of Negros Occidental residents who possess

knowledge of our local folklore and traditions. The study's primary objective is to conduct interviews with

individuals from the local community who have encountered supernatural entities as depicted in our

regional folklore.

The production design will involve the use of specific software applications, including Blender,

Photoshop, ZBrush, Substance Painter, Embergen, After Effects, and MoveAI for motion capture, as well

as the setup of filming equipment such as DSLR cameras and lighting equipment. The entire output will

be filmed within the premises of Negros Occidental, Philippines.

The scope of this study encompasses the engagement of young adults and younger audiences in the

preservation and appreciation of Filipino culture, traditions, and beliefs. Simultaneously, it explores the

potential for cultivating their interest in digital art, filmmaking, and the arts. The study aims to inspire

exploration and a deeper connection with Filipino heritage, recognizing that certain limitations may

impact the extent to which creative endeavors in these fields can be pursued among the target audience."

Significance of the Study

Artists. Are people who produce works of art in any type of media such as painting, sculpting and

sketching as a form of self expression, this study may help them develop their skill as artists and may help

in their future research.

Animators. is a skilled professional who specializes in bringing static images or

computer-generated models to life through a sequence of meticulously crafted and timed

movements. Their expertise lies in creating the illusion of motion in various media, including

traditional hand-drawn animation, computer-generated imagery (CGI), or stop-motion animation,

to convey narratives or visual effects in films, video games, and other multimedia projects.

Animators possess a deep understanding of the principles of animation, such as timing, squash

and stretch, and anticipation, to breathe life into characters and objects, enhancing the

storytelling and visual appeal of their creations.

Concept artist. A creative individual that creates a visual design for a previously unimagined object,

character, or space, which encompasses (but is not restricted to) the creation of animated films and, more

lately, video games. It requires dedication, vision, and a thorough grasp of the position to be a concept

artist. They can use this study to help develop their skill and creativity.

Filmmakers. is a creative professional who conceptualizes, plans, directs, and oversees the production of

films or movies. They are responsible for translating a script or idea into a visual and narrative form,

working with a team of professionals to capture and convey stories through the medium of cinema.

Filmmakers play a pivotal role in shaping the artistic and technical aspects of a film, bringing their unique

vision to the screen.

Students and future researchers. This may help for their future research and help them cite in

referencing information for their own output, and it can help them find similar topics, regarding

filmmaking, visual effects , and character designing that can improve their creativity.
Videographer. is a proficient professional tasked with the responsibility of capturing and recording video

footage across a wide array of settings, including live events, interviews, promotional videos, and

short-form content. Their core competencies encompass adept camera operation, proficient management

of lighting conditions, and ensuring top-tier audio recording to produce visually captivating and

technically flawless video content. Videographers hold a pivotal role in the documentation of real-life

events and the creation of visual materials for diverse purposes, often placing a strong emphasis on

technical precision in their craft.

Younger generation. aims to engage younger audiences in preserving and cherishing our culture,

traditions, and beliefs while simultaneously igniting their passion for learning digital art, filmmaking, and

the arts. By doing so, we hope to inspire them to explore and embrace the essence of being Filipino,

encouraging a deeper connection with our heritage and motivating them to pursue creative endeavors in

these fields
Frame work

Definition of terms

VFX. Visual effects is a live-action video with modified or improved pictures. The basic purpose of
visual effects is to make something artificial appear genuine, or at least credible.

CGI. Computer-Generated Imagery, abbreviated as CGI, is the use of computer software to produce
still or animated visual imagery. CGI is sometimes referred to as 3D imaging or 3D rendering.

3D. Art containing all three height, width, and depth dimensions is referred to as three-dimensional art. It
takes up more physical area than 2D art and can be seen and understood from all directions, unlike 2D art.
Folklore. Is the lore (tales, practices, beliefs) of a group of people that is passed down from
generation to generation, generally by word of mouth.

Film. A style of entertainment that creates the sense of continuous motion by telling a tale with sound and
a series of images.

Production. The process of creating items and products from components or raw materials. Or, to put it
another way, manufacturing employs inputs to produce an output that is suited for consumption—a good
or product that has value for the end user.

Reference:

Raturi,Vinod and Panwar, Dr. Priyanka. (2021). A Study of Visual Effects Industry: In the Reference to
Professional Quality of Production

Rehak, Bob. (2023). Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI)

Naquita, Loui Dominic. (2020). What makes Filipino Bad

Eslit, Edgar. (2023). Resilience of Philippine Folklore: An Enduring Heritage and Legacy for the 21st
Century.