Developing a grey character for an animated film in light of postclassical character theory

Abstract

The objective of this study is to create and develop a theory-led practice research project for the completion of a master's degree in graphic design at the North-West University. The study comprises two components: the first is theoretical, and the second is practical. This study integrates theory-led research methodology with postclassical narratology and a specific focus on the narrative element of character. The application of character theory will demonstrate the development of a grey character. That finds expression in the practical component of the study, a 3D animated short film. Building on Krakowiak (2015), Kleemans et al. (2017) and Majewski's (2023) notion of the grey character, the grey hero is an atypical hero who manifests and functions as part hero and part villain. The study will demonstrate how such a character is created, portrayed, and identified within the narrative of a 3D animated short film. Through a survey of various heroic characters from movies, series and comics, three factors that determine the grey hero's character are identified: trauma, interpersonal relationships and bendable values. Informed by this investigation, the grey hero's personality and morally ambiguous nature will be expressed by designing specific visual cues, character traits, and narrative events.