Channel Frederator Blog

Animator/director Brandon Ray turns his love of Russian literature into the very interesting (and creepy!) short film “The Deal”.

Channel Frederator: Where did you get your animation education?

Brandon Ray: I received a degree in film from The University of Texas in Austin. But all my animation know-how comes from many late nights with my sketchbook and computer.

CF: Who or what has influenced your work the most?

BR: I love Dostoevsky’s writing, especially The Brothers Karamazov, but always had a hard time reading the part of the book about The Grand Inquisitor, the one who turns Jesus in (I actually skipped most of it). I’d always wondered what significance this character had to him, since he rambles on and on about it. I read somewhere Dost himself had a religious epiphany midway through his life, and some serious Orthodox guilt that followed as well. I started thinking of guilt and damnation, and the images of [Read more…]

Here’s a quick, short and sweet interview with “Flowers Motion” director and animator Ivan Ribkin!

Channel Frederator: Where did you learn animation?

Ivan Ribkin: I studied independently. I’ve done graphic design for 10 years. Animation, I studied one year ago.

[Read more…]

Is this episode gonna to be boring? Nyet.

Is is gonna be pretty amazing? Da, Dahling!

It’s true! All of this week’s films are inspired or created by some great Russians! From The Brothers Karamazov, to flowers, to pop music, it’s a (insert Russian word for smorgasbord here) of awesomeness!

“The Deal”, submitted by Brandon Ray – A unique Dostoevsky inspired film. You’ll never guess who plays the Grand Inquisitor.

Masha and Bears “Parabellum”, submitted by Pasha E – Super cool music video for popular Russian band Masha and Bears. Keep an eye on the blog for some rad photos.

“Flowers Motion”, submitted by Ivan Rybkin – A film about the love and hardship of a family of flowers. What’s the Russian word for super cute?

WARNING: Channel Frederator is rated EXPLICIT. Spring has sprung, people. You don’t know what you’re gonna see. Just promise us you’ll get permission from a parent or guardian prior to [Read more…]