Kung-Fu Panda-- the artbook!

[furtech]

I was pleasantly surprised by Kung Fu Panda: contrary to the ads, the film had a good story and was not just fat jokes and Black-goofing. The designs were good and the backgrounds gorgeous (worth seeing this in a theater just to get the full effect of the backgrounds). Story-wise, KFP reminded me a lot of Mulan (in terms of pacing and theme); the action is great, but owes a lot to " Kung Fu Hustle " (a LOT, actually...most of KFP's action looks lifted directly from KFH).

I was slightly disappointed that there were so few bad guys: the video game based on this film has ninja wolves, big cats, crocodiles, etc. In the film they only appear in the dream sequence and end credits (which are worth watching just for all the art they put behind the credits.

I bought the art book in hopes that early character concepts would be included and I wasn't disappointed! If ever there was a must-have book this year, The Art of Kung Fu Panda is that book! Oh, my ghod! Fantastic stuff!

As I suspected, there were a large number of characters/character designs in early drafts: sheep and goat villagers; a bunch of thugs , including gazelles, *wolves* and big cats ( ninja snow leopards!! ) in Tai Lung's gang (an evil army that was dropped); and of course, tons of pandas! (<--just for you, Jen!)

Although Tai-Lung's design was appropriate for the film, I'm agog over some of his early concept designs:



At the other end of the spectrum-- as if Tai-Lung's baby pics weren't cute enough:



And there's a lovely early design for Master Tigress

Amazon has the book on sale (with free shipping!), so go grab a copy!

Comments

[furtech.livejournal.com]

Yes! I just wish I had the build to pull off the alternate Tai-Lung! The book is full of great designs!

[fatkraken.livejournal.com]

that's what skinny friends are for :D

[kime-requiem.livejournal.com]

I'd be all over that suit X3 If I could get my chest outta the way, I'd have the build XP Oh the downfalls of being a chick.

[fatkraken.livejournal.com]

you can hide tits in a decent set of foam pecs. The suit would be a bit more buildt, but could still look decent

on a related note, I found a UK supplier of open cel pond filter foam. gonna have a play with it for my Kimahri body suit

[kime-requiem.livejournal.com]

Actually, I've got links to sites where I can order shirts that'll flatten a chick right out (via the fursuit community actually). I'm looking to get one after AC if things go well. Anyway... Do share how the filter foam works out. Could be interesting :3

[furtech.livejournal.com]

Cool-- you found a source of reticulated foam in the UK? That stuff is wonderful: very forgiving when carving and breathable. If you use this in conjunction with any breathing-material (like antron fleece), you'll notice a huge difference in heat dispersion (still be warm/hot, but noticeably less so than with regular foam and fur).